On a November Saturday, thousands of protesters filled the streets of France to express their opposition to gender-based violence and to champion women’s rights, just days ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
In Paris, tens of thousands marched with purple placards, representing unity in the battle against sexual violence and the protection of reproductive rights. According to the French newspaper Le Monde, there were an estimated 80,000 participants in the capital, with 400 organizations uniting in the call for change. Smaller cities like Rennes and Lyon experienced notable turnouts, highlighting the national call for action against gender-based violence.
Protesters voiced concerns about possible regressions in women's rights around the world, especially in the United States, where President-elect Donald Trump is poised to take office again in January. The administration of Trump previously managed the Supreme Court's decision to overturn federal abortion protections, which raised international concern. In contrast, France solidified abortion rights in its constitution in March, marking a historic step that clearly ensures access to reproductive healthcare.
The demonstrations highlighted support for survivors of sexual violence, including Gisele Pelicot, whose ex-husband Dominique Pelicot and 50 co-defendants are currently on trial for allegedly drugging and raping her while she was unconscious. Dominique Pelicot acknowledged the charges in September, serving as a stark reminder of the widespread issue of gender-based violence.
“Regrettably, anyone has the potential to commit acts of violence.” It may be our brothers. It may belong to our fathers. It may be our coworkers. “It can be our bosses,” stated Maelle Noir, a spokesperson for the feminist collective Nous Toutes ("All of Us"). Noir highlighted the shared astonishment as society confronts the pervasive and frequently concealed reality of abuse.
With protests gaining momentum, activists are calling for systemic reforms and global vigilance to uphold women’s rights and safety, urging nations to prioritize concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric.