French Parliament Launches Inquiry into Sexual Violence in Cinema

The French National Assembly has unanimously voted to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate sexual and gender-based violence in the cinema, television, theatre, fashion, and advertising industries. The decision, made on Thursday, May 2, 2024, comes in response to recent allegations by several prominent figures in the French cultural scene, including actor Judith Godreche.

The commission will investigate "the condition of minors in the various sectors of cinema, television, theatre, fashion and advertising", in addition to that of adults working in these sectors. The inquiry aims to"identify the mechanisms and failings that allow these potential abuses and violences","establish responsibilities"and make recommendations.

All 52 lawmakers present for the vote approved the creation of the commission. Greens lawmaker Francesca Pasquini emphasized the importance of the commission, stating, "It's time to stop laying out the red carpet for abusers."

The vote comes a day after actor Isild Le Besco, 41, alleged in her autobiography that she was "raped" by Jacquot during a relationship that started when she was 16. Godreche has filed a legal complaint against Jacquot and has also formally accused Doillon of abusing her as a 15-year-old actress in a film he directed.

The allegations have sent shockwaves through the French cultural industry, prompting calls for a comprehensive investigation into the prevalence of sexual violence and harassment. The creation of the commission marks a significant step in addressing these concerns and ensuring a safer environment for minors and adults working in the cultural sectors.

Why this matters: This investigation has the potential to expose a pervasive culture of sexual violence and harassment in the French cultural industry, leading to a broader conversation about accountability and change. The findings of the commission could have far-reaching implications for the global entertainment industry, influencing policies and practices to prevent similar abuses.

Godreche, 52, has become a key figure in France's MeToo movement after accusing directors Benoit Jacquot and Jacques Doillon of sexually assaulting her when she was a teenager. Both directors have denied the allegations. Godreche was present in the public gallery during the vote, witnessing the unanimous support for the creation of the commission.

Commission work begins, the French cultural industry faces a reckoning with its past and a critical opportunity to enact meaningful change. The unanimous support for the inquiry demonstrates a growing recognition of the need to confront sexual violence and create a more equitable and secure environment for all those involved in the arts. The findings of the commission will be closely watched, not only in France but around the world, since the global entertainment industry faces similar issues.

Key Takeaways

• French National Assembly votes to investigate sexual violence in cinema, TV, theatre, fashion, and advertising.
• Commission to probe abuse of minors and adults, identify mechanisms, and establish responsibilities.
• Actor Judith Godreche's allegations against directors spark France's MeToo movement.
• Unanimous support for the commission marks a step towards a safer environment for industry workers.
• Findings could have far-reaching implications for the global entertainment industry.