Women's rights activists rally in Paris as parliament debates sexual violence law

Several hundred women's rights activists and supporters gathered outside France's Justice Ministry in Paris on Tuesday, as lawmakers opened examination of a proposed comprehensive law addressing sexual violence.

Demonstrators chanted slogans and carried purple banners, urging authorities to guarantee that the legislation is not only adopted but also backed by sufficient funding and resources to make it effective in practice. Signs at the rally called for stronger protection of children and an end to sexual violence more broadly.

The demonstration also attracted political figures, including presidential candidates Marine Tondelier and Raphaël Glucksmann, underscoring the political attention the issue is drawing ahead of upcoming elections.

What the bill aims to cover

According to organisers, the proposed law is intended to address multiple aspects of the issue at once: prevention of sexual violence, support for victims, ensuring justice is served, and follow-up measures for both victims and perpetrators after legal proceedings conclude. Organisers argue this comprehensive approach is necessary to tackle the problem holistically, rather than responding only after violence has already occurred.