French President Emmanuel Macron is facing criticism from feminist figures after he defended actor Gérard Depardieu, who has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by 13 women. In a recent interview, President Macron stated that Depardieu was the target of a “manhunt” and argued against withdrawing France’s highest honour, the Legion of Honour, which was awarded to the actor in 1996.
Depardieu’s alleged misconduct gained renewed attention with the release of a documentary this month, revealing incidents of sexual harassment and obscene remarks. Despite this, President Macron praised Depardieu as “a great actor” who “makes France proud,” asserting that the Legion of Honour should not be used for moral judgments based on “reports.”
The documentary portrayed Depardieu sexually harassing a translator and making inappropriate comments about a 10-year-old child. In response, the Prime Minister of Quebec revoked Depardieu’s National Order honour on December 13. However, President Macron’s defense has sparked backlash from feminist voices.
Sandrine Rousseau, an MP for the Green party, criticized Macron for insulting victims of sexual violence with his support for Depardieu. She emphasized that someone who sexualizes a child cannot be a source of national pride. Paris councillor for the Greens, Raphaëlle Rémy-Leleu, argued that without holding Depardieu accountable, victims of sexual assault would be overshadowed by a man’s reputation.
President Macron’s commitment to gender equality has been questioned by feminist groups, especially in light of previous controversies. In 2022, a report deemed his policies “insufficient” in transforming a “profoundly sexist system.” The appointment of Gérald Darmanin as interior minister in 2020, despite rape accusations, drew further criticism from feminist organizations. Although Darmanin has not been convicted, his appointment faced public outcry, and Macron’s support for figures accused of sexual misconduct continues to be a point of contention.
Élisabeth Borne, appointed prime minister by Macron in the previous year, is noted as France’s second female head of government. Despite such appointments, feminist groups argue that Macron’s actions do not align with his rhetoric on gender equality, leaving French women disappointed in the outcomes of his terms in office.
Kiki Garba
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