Feminist Group Files Legal Complaint Against Brigitte Macron Over Controversial Remarks

On December 16, 2025, the feminist association Les Tricoteuses hystériques filed a complaint of public insult against Brigitte Macron following her derogatory comments about feminist activists, whom she called "sales connes" (dirty cunts). These remarks were made after feminists interrupted a performance by comedian Ary Abittan, who is accused but not charged in a rape case. The complaint is supported by 343 women and associations, a number intentionally evoking the 1971 Manifeste des 343, where women publicly revealed having had abortions to advance women's rights.

Along with Les Tricoteuses hystériques, two other feminist groups, 3Egales3 and Metoomedia, argue that Macron's language constitutes a public insult under French law. The catalyst was Macron's statement during a public exchange, which ignited widespread outrage from feminist organizations and cultural figures, including actresses Judith Godrèche and Marion Cotillard.

Brigitte Macron subsequently regretted any harm caused to victims of sexual violence but refused to fully retract her comments, stating, "I cannot regret... I am first and foremost myself." This legal action marks a significant escalation in the backlash against the former French First Lady's controversial remarks, highlighting ongoing tensions within French feminist and political discourse.