In an interview, French President Emmanuel Macron defended actor Gérard Depardieu, who has been accused of sexual assault or harassment by 13 women. Feminist figures have criticized Macron for his defense and expressed their disappointment with his policies on gender equality. The controversy surrounding Depardieu’s behavior has raised questions about the treatment of sexual assault victims and the prioritization of reputation over accountability.
Depardieu, a renowned French actor, has been at the center of controversy since the release of a documentary in which he was shown sexually harassing a translator and making offensive remarks about a 10-year-old child. In response, the Prime Minister of Quebec stripped Depardieu of a national honor, but Macron defended the actor, stating that France’s highest honor, the Legion of Honour, should not be withdrawn from him. Macron described Depardieu as a “great actor” who “makes France proud.”
The defense of Depardieu by Macron has incited strong criticism from feminist groups and activists. Sandrine Rousseau, an MP for the Green party, accused the president of insulting victims of sexual violence with his remarks. She highlighted that someone who sexualizes a child should not be glorified or defended. Raphaëlle Rémy-Leleu, a Paris councillor for the Greens, expressed her disappointment with Macron’s stance, stating that it diminishes the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions and undermines the credibility of sexual assault victims.
This incident also sheds light on the larger issue of gender equality in France. Despite Macron claiming that gender equality would be his “great cause,” feminist groups argue that his policies have fallen short. A report published in 2022 stated that Macron’s policies were “insufficient” and failed to address the deeply ingrained sexism in the country’s systems. The appointment of Gérald Darmanin as interior minister, despite rape accusations against him, further exacerbated the disappointment among feminist groups. Although Darmanin has not been convicted of any crime, his appointment was seen as a dismissal of the allegations and a failure to prioritize survivors’ voices.
The defense of Depardieu and the broader critique of Macron’s policies serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by victims of sexual assault and harassment. The prioritization of reputation over accountability can perpetuate a culture of silence and undermine survivors’ trust in the justice system. Feminist groups continue to advocate for systemic changes, urging for greater support for survivors and a comprehensive approach to dismantling the underlying sexism in society.
It is essential for societal progress that public figures, including political leaders, take allegations of sexual assault seriously and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of survivors. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of supporting victims and the potential negative consequences when influential figures choose to defend individuals accused of misconduct. Feminist groups and activists are sending a clear message: the protection of reputation should never come at the expense of justice and the well-being of survivors.
