Original Source: www.bfmtv.com
The protests against violence towards women in France, marked by significant mobilisations in key cities, highlight the critical societal issue exacerbated by the ongoing Mazan trial. With a backdrop of international attention, this movement is not only a response to specific cases of violence but a broader condemnation of the systemic patriarchy embedded in society. Rooted in the call for change from more than 400 organisations, the protests embody a collective urgency for effective government action and comprehensive legal reforms to protect women’s rights and well-being.
On Saturday, November 23, a powerful wave of activism swept across France as over 400 organisations banded together to protest against violence towards women. Cities such as Paris, Bordeaux, and Marseille became vibrant stages for this crucial movement, coinciding with the high-profile trial regarding the harrowing sexual assaults of Mazan. This trial, involving numerous men accused of assaulting Gisèle Pelicot while she was incapacitated, has ignited a global conversation about the deep-seated culture of rape and the rampant societal violence against women.
In Paris, the march took off from Gare du Nord at 2 PM, heading towards Place de la Bastille, a historic site representing resilience and revolution. Amandine Cormier from the Feminist Strike underscored the pervasive nature of patriarchal violence, infiltrating every aspect of society—from homes and workplaces to public transport and healthcare facilities. The atmosphere was charged, with participants calling for a tangible and profound response to the alarming rise of violence against women.
Signatories of the call to action included not only grassroots organisations like the Women’s Foundation and Planning Familial but also notable figures such as singer Angèle and author Vanessa Springora. Union representatives, including leaders from the CGT and CFDT, joined the ranks, their presence emphasising the collective frustration at the insufficient government actions despite repeated promises of change.
Since Emmanuel Macron declared gender equality a key issue of his presidency in 2017, the government has introduced measures aimed at combating this crisis. Sadly, these efforts have been perceived as inadequate, leading to demands for a comprehensive overhaul of existing legislation and a yearly budget of 2.6 billion euros to tackle violence against women effectively.
As anticipation builds for the forthcoming concrete measures promised by Secretary of State Salima Saa, the call for change echoes through the protests. Activists area not just seeking legislation but a cultural shift—a promise that the scars of patriarchal violence will heal and inspire a future where every woman can live free from fear and oppression.
