November 25: IPBS reaffirms its commitment to combating violence against women
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, observed every year on November 25, takes on particular significance in France this year with the official inclusion of non-consent in the legal definition of rape and sexual assault. From now on, any non-consensual sexual act is legally recognized as rape or sexual assault, marking a major step forward in the protection of victims.
In this context, the IPBS reaffirms its commitment through its Equality Committee, which is actively engaged in raising awareness about all forms of gender-based and sexual violence. The committee regularly organizes information and support initiatives and provides appropriate reporting tools.
On this November 25, the IPBS invites everyone to take part in key events, amplify awareness campaigns, and firmly uphold the fundamental principle of consent—to prevent, combat, and reduce violence against women. This day serves as a reminder that equality and respect must guide our daily actions, and that legislative progress must now go hand in hand with the mobilization of all scientific and institutional actors.
Origin and significance of November 25
The date of November 25 was chosen by the UN in 1999 to raise public awareness and strengthen actions aimed at eliminating all forms of violence against women. This violence is defined as “any act of violence directed against the female sex, causing or likely to cause physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering, including threats of such acts, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty.” This day serves as a reminder that the fight against violence toward women remains a major societal issue.
In France, a historic legislative development on non-consent
In October 2025, the French Parliament officially incorporated the notion of non-consent into the legal definition of rape, thus aligning with international recommendations. Sexual consent is now legally defined as “free and informed, specific, given beforehand, and revocable.” The law specifies that consent cannot be inferred from silence or lack of resistance, ensuring better legal protection for victims and addressing the many situations in which shock or coercive control prevents any explicit opposition.
From a judicial standpoint, the inclusion of non-consent clearly expresses the primacy of personal and sexual autonomy. The perpetrator must now demonstrate the existence of explicit consent, thereby protecting victims from having their testimony questioned. This development brings France closer to international standards set by the Istanbul Convention and contributes to acknowledging the psychological and social realities that can hinder the expression of refusal.