Global Perpectives on Social Justice & Advocacy

 Global Perspectives on Social Justice & Advocacy 

Emma Short

University of Nebraska at Kearney

SOWK-420: Diversity and Social Justice 

Dr. Jody Laningham 

12/05/25

 

  • Summarize each of the two issues (a few sentences) and cite a significant fact or statistic regarding each social justice issue 

I decided to choose social justice issues in France. The two topics I chose to talk about are how France is redefining rape in a landmark law, which is a critical step in ending sexual violence. “France’s Parliament has adopted a landmark law that defines rape as any non-consensual sexual act, a significant milestone in the fight against sexual violence in the country.” (Saez & Fondacci). The second topic I chose is the educational barriers faced by overseas territories, specifically in Mayotte. “The French overseas department of Mayotte, an island territory in the Indian Ocean and former French colony, is failing to provide education to all children, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. A devastating cyclone in December 2024 worsened longstanding deficiencies in Mayotte’s education system that reconstructed efforts have not effectively addressed one year later.” (Human Rights Watch).

  • Discuss what is or should be done about the issue. (You may need to do some additional internet research.) 

When it comes to the education system, French authorities and legislators should repeal laws that apply to the territory and have harmful repercussions on fundamental rights, including those of children, such as laws on residence permits, as well as social and labor protections. Restrictions on access to citizenship should be revised to remove arbitrary barriers to children's fundamental rights. The French government should urgently ensure that every child in Mayotte can attend school full-time and in dignified conditions, with access to food, water, and safety.

When it comes to the French government’s new definition of the laws of rape, the French Parliament’s move follows renewed calls to ensure consent into law following the case of Gisele Pelicot, a woman who was drugged by her husband and raped repeatedly by dozens of men. The case resulted in 51 convictions and spurred widespread feminist mobilization and renewed calls to enshrine consent in law. “But adequately protecting the rights of the countless individuals, especially women and girls, who face the risk of sexual violence each year demands more than correcting the criminal definition of rape. It requires policies such as implementing comprehensive sexuality education for children and adults, as well as reshaping cultural attitudes and fostering a society where consent is expected and respected.” (Saez & Fondacci).

  • Research and write about an advocacy group or activist who is involved in addressing this issue. Briefly discuss their efforts and the impact of their efforts on society. 

When researching activist groups in France, I found little. This might have something to do with French ministers banning activist groups. However, I did find a website called “Frech 24.” This sight brought to light the rape victim Gisele Pelicot; in a way, she had started the activist movement that brought this social justice problem to light. It is with immense courage that Gisele brought her story and trial to the public, which sparked activism. They protested with signs and were interviewed, saying that they stood with Gisele and had her back. This started the talk that the laws needed to be changed. I think what Gisele did was extremely brave and started the conversation; she got justice, and it brought justice to other women, who might have been afraid to come forward.

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