Press release, September 23, 2024
We, feminist associations, are alarmed by the appointment of an ultra-conservative government. We particularly denounce the presence of ministers who have committed themselves or voted against the right to abortion in the constitution or against marriage for all.·, an unprecedented step backwards.We are concerned about the harmful message sent by these appointments, which reflect backward and reactionary positions on issues of equality and gender, completely out of step with society's expectations. The absence of a fully-fledged ministry for women's rights, with a dedicated budget, is provocative at a time when women's rights are at the heart of many protests. The trial of the Mazan rapists has caused unprecedented outrage. Everyone recognizes the urgent need for victims of violence to be able to file complaints without fear or apprehension, and the need to take real action against rape culture. That is why our feminist associations are calling for strong action, including:
- A fully-fledged ministry to steer policies on women's rights and ensure coordination with all ministries.
- A comprehensive framework law against sexual violence that combats rape culture through prevention, awareness-raising, and support for victims. This set of measures must include the implementation of appropriate criminal procedures and genuine investigative resources and obligations.
- A budget of €2.6 billion per year to provide the resources needed to combat violence against women
- The implementation of feminist diplomacy that subordinates diplomatic and international relations to respect for the rights of women, gender minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
- The repeal of laws that make it harder for exiles fleeing persecution based on gender or sexual orientation to find refuge in France.
