United Nations experts on January 19, 2024 in a statement, urged France to protect children from sexual abuse in the family and address discriminatory treatment and violence suffered by mothers who try to protect their children from sexual predation. The Experts noted: “Despite credible allegations of sexual abuse and violence against children by their fathers, France has shown little regard for the principles of precaution and the best interests of the child, and allowed the mistreatment of their mothers”.
According to the allegations received by the experts, these children are victims of sexual abuse or at high risk of sexual abuse at the hands of their fathers. They reiterated: “Despite these allegations, adequate investigation is not done and these children are placed in the custody of fathers against whom the allegations are made, and the mothers are penalized for child abduction for trying to protect their children”.
The Experts urged the authorities of France to respect the “precautionary principle” and the “due diligence principle” in child protection, particularly during legal proceedings, to allow for a preventive approach in cases of uncertainty and complexity.
Referring to the vitality of awareness raising and capacity building in law enforcement and justice officials to effectively monitor and address human rights abuses affecting these children and their mothers, the Experts stated: “Urgent steps must be taken to alleviate the distressing situation in which children and their mothers are being negatively affected by the lack of adequate consideration for their needs”.
They also called for strengthened support and safe shelters for victims and survivors of abuse and violence, and comprehensive health, counselling and free, accessible and affordable legal services.