France Sees Massive Protests Demanding Action on Violence Against Women

Thousands marched across France on Saturday. They braved cold weather in multiple cities. Their demand was clear: more action against gender-based violence.

Organized by the Greve feministe collective, the protests drew tens of thousands. In Paris alone, organizers estimated 50,000 participants. Police figures placed the number at 17,000.

Chilling Statistics Fuel Public Anger

Protesters carried powerful signs with grim facts. One placard stated a man kills a woman every 2.5 days in France. Another highlighted that nine out of ten rape victims know their attacker.

The demonstrations were awash in purple, a color symbolizing feminism. Crowds chanted, danced, and sang as they moved through city streets. The mood was a mix of anger and determined solidarity.

Official data from MIPROF, a government organization, confirmed the urgency. Intimate partner femicides rose by 11 percent from 2023 to 2024. Last year, 107 women were killed by their partner or ex-partner.

Calls for a Major Financial and Legal Overhaul

The organizing associations are pushing for concrete change. They demand a comprehensive framework law specifically against violence. They also call for a three-billion-euro budget to implement solutions.

According to the Women’s Foundation, a minimum of 2.6 billion euros annually is needed. This would fund victim protection and support services. Improved education and funding for support groups are also key demands.

The scale of the problem is vast. A woman is a victim of rape or sexual assault every two minutes in France. An incident of harassment or unsolicited sexual content occurs every 23 seconds.

The nationwide marches signal a critical moment for France. Public pressure is mounting for the government to address systemic violence against women with significant financial and legal resources. The demand for safety and justice has never been louder.

Thought you’d like to know

What were the main demands of the protesters in France?

The protesters demanded a comprehensive new law against gender-based violence. They also called for a dedicated three-billion-euro state budget to fund protection services and support for victims.

How many women were killed by partners in France last year?

Official data from MIPROF shows 107 women were killed by their partner or ex-partner in 2024. This figure represents an 11 percent increase from the previous year.

Where did the protests take place?

The main protest was in Paris, drawing tens of thousands. Hundreds also gathered in other cities like Lille, with crowds visible across the country.

What organization provided the recent statistics on violence?

The official figures were published by MIPROF. This is a French government organization tasked with protecting women from violence and combating human trafficking.

Why was the color purple significant at the marches?

Purple is widely recognized as a color linked to feminism. Protesters used purple flags, clothing, and signs to symbolize their cause and show unity.