Michel Combot à l’ANFR : l'indépendance du gendarme des ondes en question

New ANFR Appointment Raises Concerns About EMF Oversight Independence

The French National Frequency Agency (ANFR), responsible for monitoring electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure from mobile devices, has appointed Michel Combot as Deputy Director General, effective April 1, 2026. This appointment is drawing scrutiny from health advocates concerned about potential conflicts of interest in EMF regulation.

Combot's professional background includes leadership positions at telecommunications industry organizations, including the French Telecommunications Federation (FFT) from 2016 to 2023 and Numeum from 2023 to 2024. These direct ties to the telecommunications lobby have raised questions about whether the ANFR can maintain independence in its role as the regulatory body overseeing radiofrequency radiation controls.

Ongoing Concerns About Mobile Phone SAR Testing

The timing of this appointment is particularly notable as Phonegate Alert recently filed complaints with French authorities in February 2026 about alleged dysfunction in Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) testing procedures. The organization has raised concerns about manufacturers' use of software tools that may affect test results, potentially misrepresenting actual radiation exposure levels during real-world phone use.

According to the report, these software systems can modify power emission levels, which could have health implications for users. The European Commission acknowledged risks related to mobile phone market surveillance in an August 2025 decision, validating some of these concerns.

For health-conscious consumers monitoring their EMF exposure, this appointment highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring truly independent oversight of wireless device safety standards and testing procedures.

Originally reported by via @Phonegate_Alert on X