France Sees Mass Protests Against Gender-Based Violence

Tens of thousands march nationwide, calling for stronger laws and systemic changes as the high-profile Mazan rape trial concludes.

Over 100,000 people, according to organizers, protested across France on Saturday, with 80,000 in Paris alone, demanding action against violence targeting women.
The demonstrations coincided with the ongoing Mazan rape trial, where Dominique Pelicot and 50 other men face charges of drugging and raping his wife, Gisèle Pelicot, over a decade.
Protesters and feminist groups are urging the government to implement a comprehensive consent law and allocate €2.6 billion annually to combat gender-based violence.
The protests highlighted systemic issues, including the underreporting of sexual violence and the need for education to address rape culture and patriarchal norms.
Key government responses include plans to allow victims to file complaints at hospitals and increased funding for emergency support for women fleeing abuse.