France is facing a growing reckoning over systemic failures in handling sexual abuse cases, particularly those involving child victims. High-profile scandals have exposed deep-rooted issues in how authorities respond to allegations, often leading to disbelief, delays, and further trauma for survivors. Solène Podevin-Favre, head of the advocacy group Face à l'Inceste, emphasizes that lasting change requires dismantling a culture that tolerates silence and stigma around incest and sexual violence. She calls for a new approach centered on active protection, where victims are believed, supported, and empowered to pursue justice without fear of retaliation or dismissal.
The push for reform highlights the need for institutional accountability and public awareness. Podevin-Favre stresses that building a culture of vigilance starts with listening to survivors and ensuring they receive timely, compassionate responses from legal and social services. Without structural changes and consistent support systems, efforts to address abuse remain ineffective. The conversation underscores a broader demand for societal transformation, where prevention, education, and victim-centered policies become central to protecting the most vulnerable.