France to mandate reasons for dropping child sexual assault cases amid Lyhanna scandal

On 10 June, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced that a decree will be issued within days obliging prosecutors to provide a written justification when they decide not to pursue sexual‑assault cases involving minors. The measure is presented as a response to perceived shortcomings in the handling of the “Lyhanna” case, where a minor victim’s assault raised questions about transparency and accountability in the justice system.

President Emmanuel Macron, speaking in a cabinet meeting the same day, acknowledged “dysfonctionnements manifestes” in the Lyhanna investigation and urged a measured response “sans démagogie” after inspections scheduled for 19 June. He pledged that any necessary sanctions or amendments to child‑protection legislation would be based on the inspection findings, emphasizing responsibility across public services.