International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Medical Justice Unit
• Therapy Dog
• Gender-Based Violence
• Femicides
• Intimate Partner Femicides
• Rape, Attempted Rape, Sexual Assault

Medical Justice Unit and Therapy Dog Intervention

This hospital in the northern suburbs of Paris houses a specialized Medical Justice Unit dedicated to assisting victims of physical, psychological, or sexual violence. This unit plays a crucial role in supporting the justice system's adjudication of such cases. A significant element of their approach is the presence of a therapy dog. The dog's function is to alleviate the emotional distress of victims, foster easier communication between medical professionals and the victims, and facilitate the examination process. Specifically, for victims of sexual assault or rape, where genital or anal examinations can be particularly challenging, the therapy dog acts as a distraction, allowing the victim to focus on the animal rather than the medical procedure.

Prevalence of Gender-Based Violence and Legal Action

The clinic, identified as one of the busiest in France, handles over 24,000 visits annually, with a majority of patients being girls and women. This high volume is indicative of the widespread nature of gender-based violence in France. It also reflects an increasing trend of victims pursuing legal action against their abusers. The transcript references a notable mass rape case in southern France that garnered international attention and sparked discussions about pervasive abuse against women. Survivor Giz Peliko is highlighted as an inspiration for mass mobilization by bringing her case to public attention.

Ongoing Struggle and Escalating Violence

Despite these advancements, the fight against gender-based violence is described as far from over. Recent demonstrations in Paris saw thousands of people demanding enhanced protections for women. The transcript points to a concerning rise in femicides, with a particular increase compared to the previous year. There is a perceived "refusal to address gender-based violence and take it seriously."

Statistical Data on Femicides and Sexual Violence

Official statistics released on a Thursday reveal a significant increase in intimate partner femicides, rising by 11% between 2023 and 2024. This resulted in 107 women being killed by their current or former partners. Furthermore, the data indicates that in France, a woman is subjected to rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault every two minutes.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The transcript details the critical work of a Medical Justice Unit in Paris, which utilizes a therapy dog to support victims of violence. While acknowledging the growing number of victims seeking justice and the impact of high-profile cases, the summary underscores the persistent and escalating problem of gender-based violence in France. The alarming statistics on intimate partner femicides and the frequency of sexual assaults highlight the urgent need for continued efforts and a more serious societal response to these issues.