Tens of thousands rally in France for a comprehensive law to fight sexual violence
Summary
Tens of thousands of people in France marched in multiple cities to demand a strong law to fight sexual violence. The protests were sparked by the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl named Lyhanna, whose case revealed failures in the justice system to protect children and properly investigate past abuse accusations.Key Facts
- Lyhanna, an 11-year-old girl, was raped and murdered in May 2026 in Fleurance, southwestern France.
- The main suspect had two previous accusations of child rape that were dropped or not pursued.
- Protests took place in about 110 French cities, including a major march in Paris with around 100,000 participants.
- Demonstrators called for a comprehensive law covering prevention of sexual violence and support for victims.
- Many rape complaints in France, about 94%, are dismissed without court action.
- The Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin apologized for failures but did not resign.
- President Emmanuel Macron expressed concern about public trust in institutions due to these failures.
- A government report found limited staff and resources to properly investigate child abuse allegations.
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