French National Assembly Unanimously Adopts Landmark Law Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

On October 13, 2026, the French National Assembly unanimously passed a comprehensive law targeting sexual and gender-based violence, with all 503 deputies voting in favor. This rare consensus reflects the law’s broad scope, aimed at addressing violence against women and children throughout the entire continuum, from identification and prevention to victim reparations.

The vote was highly emotional, with tearful reactions from lawmakers and victims alike. Social Democrat MP Céline Thiebaud-Martinez, the bill’s rapporteur, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition of the law’s importance. Despite the overwhelming support, she acknowledged the law’s imperfections and underscored the need for firm government commitment on funding to ensure its implementation.

Notably, the law introduces a new leave entitlement for victims of sexual violence, marking a significant step in victim support. However, some controversies accompanied the passage: The far-right National Rally (RN) celebrated the removal of immigration-related provisions that would have extended protections to undocumented women, viewing this as a victory against potential immigration pathways. Conversely, the left-wing party La France insoumise abstained from voting, criticizing both the far right’s opposition to terms like "feminicide" and the law’s gaps, including the lack of protections for undocumented victims.

The National Assembly’s unanimous adoption marks an important milestone in French legislation on sexual violence, but political debates continue. The bill now awaits confirmation in the Senate, and advocates emphasize the importance of full governmental support and funding to translate the law’s ambitions into effective protections and justice for victims.

This legislative victory coincides with broader public attention to issues of violence and protest safety, as seen in ongoing investigations into student protests and political calls for accountability and preventive measures.

Overall, the law represents a historic effort by France to comprehensively combat sexual and gender-based violence, reflecting both consensus on the issue's urgency and ongoing political tensions concerning certain provisions and protections.