UN experts urge France to protect children from incest, all forms of sexual abuse

By Dilara Hamit

A group of UN experts on Friday urged France to take urgent action to protect children from incest and all forms of sexual abuse, and also address mistreatment suffered by mothers who try to keep their children safe.

“Despite credible allegations of sexual abuse and incestuous violence against children by their fathers, France has shown little regard for the principles of precaution and the best interests of the child, and allowed the mistreatment of their mothers,” the experts said.

“Despite these allegations, and in the absence of adequate investigation, these children are placed in the custody of fathers against whom the allegations are made, and the mothers are penalized for child abduction for trying to protect their children,” they added.

The experts urged authorities to respect the “precautionary principle” and the “due diligence principle” in child protection, particularly during legal proceedings, to allow for a preventive approach in cases of “uncertainty and complexity.”

The experts also called for “strengthened support and safe shelters for victims and survivors of abuse and violence, and comprehensive health, counselling and free, accessible and affordable legal services.”

“It is crucial to raise awareness and build the capacity of law enforcement and justice officials to effectively monitor and address human rights abuses affecting these children and their mothers,” they added.