Heatwave as a trigger for violence against women, French feminist lobby warns

Paris – 25 June 2026: Françoise Brié, director of the French feminist lobby, warned in an interview with France Inter about the increased risk of violence against women during the current heatwave. She stressed that extreme temperatures can act as triggers for tensions and conflicts that lead to violence against women. Brié called on society to be particularly vigilant, as these factors can lead to femicides.

The current heatwave in France is characterised by its exceptional intensity and duration. Météo-France has declared the highest alert level in 49 departments, setting a historic record. Temperatures of up to 40°C have been recorded in several regions.

In this context, Brié emphasised the need to increase awareness and prevention. She urged the authorities to implement preventive measures and strengthen support for women in vulnerable situations. She also called on the public to remain alert and seek immediate help at any sign of violence.

The French feminist lobby has been working for years for women’s rights and against violence. Among its demands is the creation of a national parliament specifically dedicated to combating violence against women.

In light of the current heatwave and the associated risks for women, the feminist lobby calls on society to remain vigilant and act together against violence. They emphasise that the combination of extreme weather conditions and existing social tensions can increase the risk of violence against women.

The French government has already taken measures to address the heatwave, including the establishment of a crisis cell and the declaration of the highest alert level in several departments. However, preventing violence remains an urgent issue requiring ongoing attention.

Overall, the current situation underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to combating violence against women, including both preventive and reactive measures. The combination of extreme weather conditions and social tensions requires greater cooperation between authorities, organisations and society to ensure the safety and well-being of women in France.

The French feminist lobby emphasises that the fight against violence against women is a task for society as a whole, requiring constant efforts and attention. It therefore calls for stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to develop and implement effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Finally, the lobby calls on society to remain vigilant and seek immediate help at signs of violence. It highlights that the combination of extreme weather conditions and existing social tensions can increase the risk of violence against women.