France approves bill to notify victims of abusers’ release

French Parliament has unanimously approved a bill requiring judicial authorities to systematically inform victims of sexual violence about any release of their offender from prison, including temporary leave and early release measures.

The legislation aims to strengthen protections for victims and improve support mechanisms following criticism of inconsistencies in the current notification system, BFM reports.

Under the proposed law, victims should, whenever possible, be notified at least one month before the offender’s release. Lawmakers say the measure is intended to give victims time to take necessary security precautions and seek psychological support. Victims will also retain the right to decline receiving such notifications.

The bill was introduced by Renaissance party lawmaker Laure Miller with backing from the French government and organizations advocating for victims’ rights. The text will now move to the Senate for further consideration. 

The initiative was prompted by the suicide of a 17-year-old boy named Yanis, who had not been informed in advance about the release of the man who sexually abused him. Yanis’ parents attended the National Assembly session during which the bill was approved and received applause from lawmakers.

According to the authors of the legislation, the current process for informing victims is often inconsistent and depends largely on individual judicial decisions or requests made by victims themselves.

In addition to notification requirements, the bill would prohibit released offenders from contacting victims or approaching their homes or workplaces unless otherwise authorized by a court.

The legislation also includes plans to launch an experimental program establishing specialized support centres for victims of sexual violence.

The proposal is partly based on recommendations issued by an independent commission investigating child sexual abuse, reflecting broader efforts in France to strengthen protections for survivors and improve institutional responses to sexual violence cases.

By Vafa Guliyeva