Starting in September, students in France will receive education on sex, gender stereotypes, and consent—28 years after a mandate was established for such teachings. The curriculum has finally been developed and approved by the government, prompting a wave of responses from various stakeholders.
French Schools Introduce Comprehensive Sex Education Program After 25 Years
French Schools Introduce Comprehensive Sex Education Program After 25 Years
The long-awaited implementation of sex education in French schools marks a significant shift in addressing students' needs.
After years of advocacy and a lawsuit filed in 2023 by three nonprofit organizations, including Le Planning Familial, the government has moved forward despite resistance from conservative factions. Critics label the curriculum as “ideological brainwashing,” but the education minister, Elisabeth Borne, defends it as "absolutely essential." Citing alarming statistics on child abuse and the negative influences of online pornography, Borne emphasizes the necessity of fostering a safe and informed environment for students.
The curriculum implementation is seen as a crucial step toward combating prevalent sexual abuse and outdated stereotypes in education, in response to societal changes and the growing need for comprehensive sexuality education.
According to government data, one child is sexually abused every three minutes in France, illustrating the urgency behind introducing this curriculum. Teacher training and resource materials will accompany the new program, aiming to equip educators with tools necessary for effective teaching on these critical topics.
The opposition's concerns regarding the terminology surrounding gender identity remain part of the dialogue, yet the government's resolve to implement this long-overdue education program appears to be unwavering.
The curriculum implementation is seen as a crucial step toward combating prevalent sexual abuse and outdated stereotypes in education, in response to societal changes and the growing need for comprehensive sexuality education.
According to government data, one child is sexually abused every three minutes in France, illustrating the urgency behind introducing this curriculum. Teacher training and resource materials will accompany the new program, aiming to equip educators with tools necessary for effective teaching on these critical topics.
The opposition's concerns regarding the terminology surrounding gender identity remain part of the dialogue, yet the government's resolve to implement this long-overdue education program appears to be unwavering.
