France's lower house of parliament has approved a landmark bill that redefines rape as any non-consensual sexual act, marking a significant shift towards a consent-based legal framework.

The legislation was passed with strong support, 155 votes in favor and 31 against, mainly opposed by extreme right-wing members who raised concerns about legal ambiguity.

Under the new law, consent must be 'free and informed, specific, prior, and revocable,' and cannot be assumed from silence or lack of reaction, aligning France with other European countries like Germany and Spain.

The bill was motivated by high-profile cases, including the case of Gisele Pelicot, who was drugged and raped by strangers invited by her ex-husband, which reignited debates over the importance of clear consent.

Supporters, including government officials and feminist advocates, see this reform as a crucial step in shifting societal attitudes from a 'culture of rape' to a 'culture of consent,' emphasizing that silence does not equal consent.

While some critics argue the new definition is subjective and difficult to interpret, supporters believe it advances the protection of victims and clarifies legal standards.

Political figures like Marie-Charlotte Garin and Véronique Riotton acknowledge that, although this law is a positive development, it is not a complete solution and must be part of broader efforts to combat gender-based violence.

Despite broad support, opposition from far-right parties like RN and UDR voiced concerns about the complexity of proving rape and potential legal ambiguities, with critics labeling the law a 'moral and legal deviation.'

The legislation resulted from collective efforts since 2023, influenced by feminist activism, judicial feedback, and high-profile cases, aiming to change societal perceptions and legal standards.

Supporters argue that the reform shifts the burden onto offenders to prove consent and emphasizes that a true, freely given 'yes' is necessary, reinforcing the importance of clear boundaries.

Opponents, mainly from the far-right, contend that the new definition is subjective and could lead to legal uncertainties, raising questions about clarity and application.

France's new legal approach aligns with other European nations, emphasizing that consent must be free, informed, specific, prior, and revocable, marking a significant legal evolution.

The bill received backing from the Minister for Gender Equality, Aurore Bergé, and was praised as a collective victory for France's progress in addressing sexual violence.