Women's rights in France

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A long struggle for equality

For centuries, women in France lived under a system that imposed strict roles on them and kept them in a position of inferiority. They did not have the right to vote, did not have access to all professions, and in many cases, had to obey their husbands.
 

But little by little, things changed, thanks to the struggles of many activists and feminist movements.
 

Major advancements for women's rights in France: A long road to equality

The history of women's rights in France is marked by struggles and victories that have gradually transformed their place in society. From winning the right to vote to the inclusion of abortion rights in the Constitution, each advancement has marked a decisive turning point. Let’s take a look at these major milestones that have changed the lives of French women.
 

1944: The right to vote, a fundamental victory

Before 1944, French women did not have the right to vote, unlike those in countries such as the United States or the United Kingdom. After decades of struggle, this right was finally granted to them through an ordinance signed by General de Gaulle. In April 1945, they voted for the first time in municipal elections. This was a major democratic breakthrough that marked the beginning of their political involvement.
 

1965: Financial independence, a late emancipation

Until 1965, a married woman had to ask for her husband’s permission to open a bank account or engage in professional activity. In other words, she was not free to manage her money or work without his consent. Thanks to the reform of marital regimes, women finally gained financial independence, a crucial step toward economic equality.
 

1970: Joint parental authority, a more balanced family

Before this reform, the father was officially the head of the family and had exclusive authority over decisions concerning the children. In 1970, the law established joint parental authority, recognizing a shared responsibility between both parents. This advancement redefined family roles and gave mothers greater involvement in their children’s education.
 

1975: The Veil Law and the legalization of abortion, a social revolution

Women’s right to control their own bodies was a long and difficult battle. Until 1975, abortion was illegal in France, and women had to travel abroad to terminate an unwanted pregnancy, often in unsafe conditions. Led by Simone Veil, the 1975 law legalized voluntary termination of pregnancy (IVG), despite fierce opposition. This was a major victory that ensured women the right to choose motherhood.
 

1980: Recognition of rape as a crime, a step forward for justice

Until this date, rape was often trivialized, considered a minor offense or even a private matter. The December 23, 1980 law made rape a criminal offense, with harsher penalties for perpetrators. This law marked an important awareness and progress in victim protection.
 

2000: Political parity, a step toward equal representation

Politics remained a male-dominated field for a long time. In 2000, a law required political parties to present equal numbers of male and female candidates in elections to encourage women’s representation in public life. While this measure led to progress, achieving true parity remains a challenge, especially in high-ranking positions.
 

2024: Abortion rights enshrined in the Constitution, strengthened protection

A recent major advancement: France became the first country in the world to include the right to abortion in its Constitution. This measure aims to guarantee access to abortion and protect it against any attempt at restriction, a strong symbol in an international context where this right is sometimes under threat.
 

What remains to be done

• Wage gap: On average, women still earn about 15% less than men in France for equal work.
   
• Violence against women: The numbers remain alarming. One woman is killed every three days by her partner or ex-partner. Thousands of others suffer physical or psychological abuse.
   
• Gender stereotypes: In society, clichés about male and female roles persist. Girls are still often steered toward certain careers, and women still have to prove their legitimacy in some professional fields.
   
• Household labor distribution: Despite progress, women still perform the majority of domestic tasks and take primary responsibility for child-rearing.
   

And now?

Gender equality should not just be a goal but a reality. This requires education, because from an early age, it is essential to dismantle stereotypes. It also requires stronger laws, greater recognition of injustices, and a change in societal attitudes.
 

Progress has been made, there is still a long way to go, but one thing is certain: the fight for women's rights continues, and every generation has a role to play.