A recent report from the High Council for Equality in France reveals a growing gender gap, with an increasing divide between women embracing feminism and men adopting masculinist views, particularly among youth. It highlights challenges faced by women, alongside significant visibility of sexist discourse in media and politics. The report calls for educational programs on emotional and sexual health, reforms in parental leave, and greater male involvement in combating sexism, underscoring the urgent need for gender parity and diversity in society.
A Growing Gender Gap in France
On Monday, January 20, the High Council for Equality between Women and Men (HCE) unveiled its annual report highlighting the state of sexism in France. This report, based on the Sexism Barometer created in partnership with the Toluna Harris Interactive institute, reveals a concerning trend: an increasing ‘polarization’ between women who are embracing feminist ideals and men who are gravitating towards ‘masculinist’ viewpoints, especially among the youth.
Escalating Visibility of Sexist Discourse
According to the findings, a significant 60% of the French population perceives it as challenging to be a woman. This sentiment resonates with 86% of women aged 25 to 34 and 66% of young men, as demonstrated by a barometer conducted in October 2024 involving a representative sample of 3,200 individuals aged 15 and above. Interestingly, 45% of men under 35—along with a quarter of the overall population—express that being a man is also difficult, a notion that seems to be gaining momentum among younger males. ‘Women are increasingly identifying as feminists while men are adopting more masculinist views, particularly among the youth,’ stated Bérangère Couillard, president of the HCE.
The report highlights the alarming rise in ‘sexist and masculinist discourses’ that have become more visible, especially within media outlets and political rhetoric. While media discussions around inequality have increased, women continue to be sidelined, with sexist comments remaining prevalent and insufficiently challenged. Significant disparities in treatment between genders are noted across various sectors: the workplace (76%), public spaces and transportation (71%), politics (70%), family life (62%), and media representation (48%).
Notably, the Mazan rape trial, which led to the conviction of 51 men for the sexual assault of Gisèle Pelicot—who was drugged by her husband—has been pivotal in elevating public awareness. Approximately 65% of the French population believes this case underscores the idea that ‘all men share some responsibility’ regarding sexist and sexual violence. Furthermore, nearly 90% of French citizens agree that men should actively participate in preventing and combating sexism.
As a parliamentary commission prepares to release its findings on incorporating consent into the definition of rape, it is alarming that 35% of women report having engaged in sexual activities against their will due to their partner’s pressure.
In response to these findings, the HCE proposes several actionable solutions that have garnered public support. Notably, 90% of the population advocates for the implementation of educational programs focused on emotional and sexual health. Additionally, 70% of residents call for reforms in paternity and parental leave policies.
Simultaneously, the HCE emphasizes the necessity for ‘decisive actions’ aimed at enhancing diversity and gender parity in professional environments. It also recommends the development of ‘gender-sensitive budgets’ to scrutinize expenditures allocated to boys and men versus those directed toward girls and women, ensuring public policies are adjusted accordingly. Lastly, there is a pressing call for ‘increased involvement from men in combating sexism,’ as 80% of the French populace believes there is excessive tolerance of sexist behaviors and remarks.