The rape and murder of 11-year-old Lihanna in France has brought thousands of people to the streets, demanding comprehensive legislation against sexual violence. This tragedy, which occurred on May 29 in Fleurance and saw the girl's body discovered a week later, has become a catalyst for a mass movement.
Protesters, including feminist and child protection organizations, are calling for systemic solutions rather than temporary measures. In Paris, the July 4 demonstration began at Bastille Square and proceeded to Nation Square.
Anger mounted after it was revealed that the main suspect, a 41-year-old man whose daughter was Lihanna's classmate, had already been accused twice of child rape, but investigations had been halted or reached an impasse. This case is seen as a system failure that could have protected Lihanna.
"We cannot tolerate this chronically underfunded justice system that protects aggressors rather than victims. Ninety-four percent of rape cases remain without further investigation; many perpetrators appear in the field of justice but are never held accountable," stated Anne-Cécile Mailfert, president of the Women's Foundation.
French President Emmanuel Macron last month expressed concern over the loss of trust in the country's institutions. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has apologized and instructed prosecutors to review approximately 70,000 unfinished child sexual abuse cases by July 14.
