French Senate debates male responsibility after Lyhanna murder

The murder of 11‑year‑old Lyhanna in the Gers department has sparked a heated debate in the French Senate. While the main suspect, Jérôme Barella, has not been arrested despite multiple complaints, left‑wing women politicians—including senator Mélanie Vogel, deputy Céline Thiébault‑Martinez, Mathilde Panot and Marine Tondelier—have argued that violence against women and children is a systemic issue rooted in patriarchy. They cited INSEE data showing that 97 % of sexual offences in France are committed by men and called for education on consent starting in kindergarten, as well as a trans‑party “integral law” to prevent such violence.

Right‑wing figures, such as interior minister Sébastien Lecornu and LR presidential candidate Bruno Retailleau, responded by urging harsher penalties, longer prison terms and even compulsory chemical castration for repeat offenders. They emphasized individual responsibility and the need for stronger judicial tools. The debate has been mirrored by public protests across the country, with many women demanding more action and asking, “Where were the men?”