France Outlaws Catcalling & Street Harassment
France is hoping to reduce sexual violence by outlawing street harassment, Reuters reports. Going forward, anyone caught catcalling will be subject to fines of up to 750 euros (approximately $870 USD).
The new law was passed on Wednesday, following the verbal and physical attack of a young woman, Marie Laguerre, outside a Paris cafe. After telling the culprit to "shut up," Laguerre was punched by the man who wolf-whistled at her.
“Harassment in the street has previously not been punished. From now on, it will be,” Marlene Schiappa, gender equality minister and architect of the new legislation, told Europe 1 radio.
Those opposing the law are insisting the new legislation will cut down on French romance.
“What’s key is ... that the laws of the French republic forbid insulting, intimidating, threatening and following women in public spaces,” Schiappa added.
For more on France's decision to outlaw street harassment, visit Reuters.
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