Thousands take to streets in France to protest sexual violence

In a powerful demonstration against sexual violence, tens of thousands of protesters filled the streets of France on Nov 23. The nationwide rallies took place just days before the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, reflecting the country’s growing demand for action on gender-based violence and the protection of women’s rights.

In Paris, a sea of demonstrators, both men and women, marched while holding purple banners that condemned violence against women and championed reproductive rights.

Many voiced concerns about the global rollback of women’s rights, pointing to developments in the United States, where President-elect Donald Trump’s administration may revisit debates around national abortion bans.

While Vice President-elect JD Vance had previously expressed support for such measures in 2022, he later stated that abortion policy should be left to individual states.

According to Le Monde, approximately 80,000 protesters gathered in Paris, joined by 400 organizations advocating for gender equality and justice for survivors.

Smaller demonstrations unfolded across the country, including in Renne and Lyon, where thousands more added their voices to the call for change.

A Landmark for Reproductive Rights

The protests come after France’s historic decision in March to enshrine abortion rights in its constitution, ensuring nationwide access to reproductive healthcare.

This move was seen as a response to the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned long-standing protections for abortion rights, igniting a global conversation on women’s autonomy.

Abortion has been legal in France since 1975, but the constitutional amendment reinforced these rights, positioning France as the first nation to explicitly guarantee them at this level.

Solidarity and Justice

Protesters also rallied in support of survivors like Gisele Pelicot, whose case has shocked the nation. Her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot, along with 50 others, is on trial for allegedly drugging and raping her over a decade ago while she was unconscious. In September, Dominique admitted to the charges.

“Anyone can be a perpetrator—brothers, fathers, colleagues, or even bosses. This realization is what shakes people the most,” said Maelle Noir, a representative of the feminist collective Nous Toutes (translated as All of Us), speaking at the Paris demonstration.

The rallies highlighted the urgency of combating gender-based violence, ensuring justice for survivors, and safeguarding hard-won rights.

With thousands taking a stand, France sent a clear message: the fight against sexual violence and for gender equality must remain a global priority.