Overview

• The parliamentary committee concluded Bayrou was informed of physical abuse in 1996 and rape allegations in 1998 but failed to take action during his tenure in education roles.
• MP Paul Vannier alleged that Bayrou made false statements under oath in a five-hour hearing, which could constitute perjury.
• About 200 former pupils have come forward with accounts of physical and sexual violence at the Bétharram Catholic school.
• Bayrou’s close ties to the institution—including his wife’s teaching role and three children’s attendance—have intensified criticism of his inaction.
• Survivors and advocates warn that statutes of limitations preclude most criminal cases, leaving civil compensation as the primary route for redress.