France to Reform Child Protection Laws After Lyhanna Murder

The murder of 13‑year‑old Lyhanna has intensified scrutiny of France’s child‑protection system, which officials admitted suffered institutional failures. The case has been cited as evidence that promises to place child protection at the heart of President Emmanuel Macron’s agenda have not been fully realized.

Deputy Minister for Equality, Aurore Bergé announced that comprehensive reforms targeting sexual violence against children and women will be adopted before the end of the current presidential term. A draft law is slated for debate in the National Assembly beginning 15 July, with an emphasis on making the statute of limitations for sexual offences inapplicable and on faster, non‑legislative measures such as improved training. The minister stressed the need for “clear judicial responses” and pledged to protect children more effectively.

The government’s response signals a shift toward stronger legal safeguards and resource allocation for child‑protection services, aiming to address the systemic weaknesses highlighted by the Lyhanna case.