In this article, we will look at the recent news of the demonstrations which took place in France on November 25, 2023, on the occasion of the International Day against Violence Against Women. Thousands of people, dressed in purple in support of feminism, expressed their discontent and demanded additional measures to protect women victims of violence.
Feminist associations, unions and numerous political figures have called for demonstrations throughout the country to denounce the persistence of violence against women and to demand real action from the government. In a video broadcast on social networks, the President of the Republic highlighted the actions already undertaken, such as the expansion of 3919 hours, the creation of a digital support platform and the increase in the number of investigators dedicated. However, these measures are considered insufficient by the demonstrators.
The associations estimate that more than 2 billion euros must be invested to effectively combat violence against women. The unions, for their part, are asking for financial resources to implement a global policy to combat sexual and gender-based violence, at work and in daily life. Some political figures even put forward the figure of two to three billion euros, the equivalent of the wealth tax abolished by Emmanuel Macron.
It is undeniable that the current situation is alarming. In 2022, 118 femicides were recorded, a figure almost identical to that of the previous year. Over the first eleven months of 2023, feminist associations have already recorded 121 feminicides. Faced with these frightening figures, it is urgent to take concrete and systemic measures to guarantee the safety of women and put an end to this unbearable violence.
The demonstrations were held in several French cities, bringing together hundreds of people in Lyon, Strasbourg, Lille, and many others. The processions were mainly made up of women, but also of men supportive of the cause. The color purple, a symbol of feminism in many countries, was omnipresent in the parades.
The signs held up by the demonstrators carried strong messages such as “Protect your daughters, educate your sons”, “Giving in is not consent” or “In France, a rape every 6 minutes”. The demands were clear: better justice for sexual violence, recognition of the scale of the problem and substantial financial resources to effectively combat violence against women.
It is essential that society as a whole mobilizes to put an end to this unacceptable violence.. Educating younger generations about gender equality, raising awareness of gender-based violence and putting in place protection and support measures for victims are all necessary actions to move towards a fairer society that respects all.
In conclusion, the demonstrations of November 25, 2023 in France were a cry of anger and demand against violence against women. Although actions have been taken in recent years, it is undeniable that we must go further and invest more resources to guarantee the safety of women and eradicate this violence once and for all. The mobilization of society as a whole is essential to put an end to this unbearable reality and to build a future where everyone can live without fear or violence.