There have been widespread protests in France against sexual violence, as thousands took to the streets across the country. The demonstrations coincided with the upcoming International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
In Paris, large crowds of both women and men marched carrying purple placards denouncing gender-based violence and advocating for women’s reproductive rights. Concerns were raised about the potential threats to women’s rights in the United States under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.
According to a report in French newspaper Le Monde, around 80,000 protesters participated in the demonstrations in Paris, with 400 different organizations joining in. Additionally, thousands of people gathered in smaller cities throughout France to show their support.
France made a significant move by enshrining abortion rights in the constitution earlier this year, in response to actions taken in the US to restrict reproductive rights. Protesters also showed solidarity with Gisele Pelicot, a survivor of sexual violence whose case has garnered attention during the ongoing trial of her ex-husband and other defendants.
At the protests in Paris, Maelle Noir of the feminist collective Nous Toutes emphasized that perpetrators of violence can come from various backgrounds, including family members and colleagues. The demonstrations aimed to raise awareness and advocate for a society free of violence against women.
