France Debates Legal Redefinition of Rape to Include Consent

As the trial of the Mazan rapes unfolds, calls grow for France to align its laws with European standards emphasizing explicit consent.

The ongoing trial of the Mazan rapes, involving 51 accused men, has reignited debate over France's legal definition of rape, which currently excludes explicit reference to consent.
France's penal code defines rape based on violence, threat, coercion, or surprise, a standard criticized by international bodies including the Council of Europe.
Spain's 2019 legal reforms, following the high-profile 'La Manada' case, introduced the 'Solo sí es sí' law, requiring explicit consent for sexual acts, setting a potential model for France.
Proponents of the reform argue that including consent in the law would better protect victims and increase conviction rates, while critics warn of potential challenges in proving consent in court.
The French government, which previously resisted such changes, now voices tentative support, reflecting shifting public and political attitudes influenced by feminist movements and international pressure.