Overview

• The Senate approved a bill redefining rape and sexual assault as any act carried out without consent.
• It specifies that consent must be free, informed, specific, prior and revocable and cannot be inferred from silence.
• A joint committee of senators and MPs will reconcile Senate and lower-house versions before both chambers vote on the final text.
• The 2024 Avignon case, in which Dominique Pelicot was convicted of drugging his wife to facilitate group rape, galvanized support for the reform.
• Some lawmakers and activists warn the new focus on consent could place an undue burden on victims, while supporters argue it will strengthen offender accountability.