Credits: AllenS / Wikimedia Commons — Public domain.
In a remarkable show of solidarity, one hundred French public figures posed for Le Monde, calling for more comprehensive legislation to combat sexual and gender-based violence. Among them are figures from all professional backgrounds who are not just numbers, but embody the voices of millions of others affected by this scourge.
This collective action follows a series of #MeToo revelations that have highlighted the systemic nature of this violence. These statements aim to break a collective denial that, until now, has too often protected perpetrators instead of supporting victims.
The op-ed underscores the urgency of more ambitious legislation, notably by clarifying the legal definitions of "rape" and "consent," introducing the term "incest," and improving judicial processes for victims. The alarming rate of dismissed cases, reaching 94% in 2022, is a stark indicator of the current failure of existing systems.
The actress Anna Mouglalis, who initiated the photo project with Anne-Cécile Mailfert and Muriel Réus, highlights this need for change. The goal is clear: move from a communications strategy to concrete, funded action, so that the fight against sexual and gender-based violence becomes a true national priority, supported by resources commensurate with the challenge.
Faced with this damning assessment, the response from public figures and citizens calls for a profound transformation, one in which silence and complacency will no longer have a place. It is a call to action, vigilance, and commitment from everyone so that real change is finally achieved.