Paris – June 11, 2026: French jurist and feminist lawyer Rachel-Flore Pardo strongly criticized the treatment of sexual violence victims in France in a detailed interview. She called the lack of support a “failure of democracy” and demands fundamental systemic changes to better protect victims’ rights and restore lost trust in the judiciary.
Since 2019, Pardo has been handling criminal law matters at the Paris High Court and specializes in digital law. She has actively participated in feminist movements for many years. She is also the co-founder of the organization StopFisha, which responds to cyber sexism and online sexual violence. According to her, current measures do not adequately address the complex challenges of supporting victims.
The lawyer emphasizes that insufficient support not only prolongs the suffering of victims but also harms the relationship between citizens and the rule of law in the long term. Victims’ suffering and anxiety often encounter bureaucratic barriers and a lack of empathy. Pardo pointed out that many victims generally feel left alone and are often unable to summon the courage to report or take legal action.
Furthermore, she criticizes that the judiciary often does not receive sufficient resources for prompt and careful procedural handling. Delays and a lack of victim-centered approaches are frequent, and Pardo warns that these flaws will have serious negative impacts on trust in the legal system. She called this an “extreme democratic failure.”
She sees France currently at a critical crossroads. After prominent cases like Pelicot and Bruel, France must review legislation and practices. Pardo specifically demands additional financial investment in support programs, retraining of specialized personnel, and improved awareness within relevant institutions.
In her reform efforts, Pardo emphasizes that not only legal changes but also social awareness addressing sexual violence issues must take root. Only then can victims receive sufficient recognition and support in the long term, and the legal system can become effective and trustworthy again.
Rachel-Flore Pardo’s appeal clearly shows the urgent need to better protect and support sexual violence victims in France. Her demands reflect the broad social discussion that has gained importance in recent years and call for clear political responses.
Sources
- franceinfo