Gender-based violence prevention initiatives in France

Efforts to combat gender-based and sexual violence in France have focused on both workplace protections and public awareness campaigns.

In the professional sphere, organizations such as the Association européenne contre les Violences faites aux Femmes au Travail (AVFT) and the Maison des Femmes – Simone de Beauvoir have provided workshops to help victims of workplace sexism and sexual violence identify legal recourse and understand employer obligations. The trade union Force Ouvrière (FO) has noted that while legal frameworks exist, significant discrimination persists, particularly among women, youth, immigrants, and people with disabilities.

Expanding into public spaces, Minister for Equality and Combatting Discrimination Aurore Bergé launched a national campaign targeting highway rest and service areas. This initiative utilizes posters in hundreds of locations and radio broadcasts to reach travelers. The program includes training for service staff to identify violence and assist victims. Additionally, the government has committed to increasing funding for the fight against violence toward women and children in 2027, while maintaining support for the 3919 helpline.