French Government Faces Criticism Over Response to Gender-Based Violence

Advocates push for a comprehensive law to address systemic issues, as officials prioritize implementing existing measures.

Prime Minister Michel Barnier announced new measures including detection kits for chemical submission, expanded hospital-based complaint options, increased emergency aid funding, and plans for women's shelters in every department by 2025.
A coalition of 63 feminist and advocacy groups proposed a 'comprehensive framework law' with 140 measures to tackle all forms of gender-based violence, which the government rejected as premature.
Critics highlight systemic issues, including insufficient police resources, poor-quality investigations, and a justice system overwhelmed by rising complaints but yielding few convictions.
Deputies and advocates argue that the current fragmented legal framework fails to address the growing complexity and scale of gender-based violence cases effectively.
Associations supporting victims warn of financial instability due to inadequate government funding, risking layoffs and closures as demand for their services continues to rise.