2024 has been quite the remarkable year for France, punctuated by significant events ranging from farmers’ protests to historic legal advancements. The country witnessed moments of celebration like the Paris Summer Olympics and sobering tragedies such as the mass rape trial of Gisèle Pelicot. Each story speaks volumes about the changing social fabric and political climate of modern France.
The year kicked off with European farmers protesting against an EU deal with South America’s Mercosur bloc, which they feared would undermine their livelihoods. Farmers convened across France, blocking supply routes to Spain and Germany, pledging to incite “chaos and food shortages” should the deal, which critics claim favors cheaper produce from countries with lax regulations, proceed. Despite the government’s opposition to the agreement, the deal was finalized at the end of December, igniting tensions between agricultural workers and the authorities.
Meanwhile, the French cinema industry found itself embroiled in its own reckoning as the delayed #MeToo movement gained traction. High-profile actress Judith Godrèche accused filmmakers Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon of sexually abusing her during her teenage years. Both men have denied the allegations. This year also saw the trial of filmmaker Christophe Ruggia, accused of sexually assaulting his then-child actor Adèle Haenel. The courtroom was charged with emotion, particularly when Ruggia attempted to justify his actions, prompting Haenel to deliver the poignant remark, “Shut your mouth.” A verdict is set for February 3, 2025.
France achieved another historic milestone with the constitutional enshrinement of abortion rights. Following the reversal of Roe v. Wade by the US Supreme Court, France’s parliament voted overwhelmingly—with support from both ends of the political spectrum—to explicitly protect the right to abortion. This new constitutional amendment, officially integrated during a ceremony on March 8, emphasizes France’s commitment to reproductive rights. President Emmanuel Macron heralded this change as the beginning of efforts to guarantee such rights across the European Union.
A moment of remembrance also cast the nation’s eyes back to history, as France marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Commemorations in Normandy brought together veterans and world leaders, including Macron and US President Joe Biden, to honor the sacrifices made during World War II. They paid tribute, at the British memorial at Ver-sur-Mer, to the heroism displayed when around 156,000 allied troops landed on French shores to commence liberation efforts.
French political affairs were tumultuous throughout the year. The June European elections saw the far-right National Rally secure the most seats, posing significant challenges to President Macron’s centrist government. He called for snap elections, betting on momentum to rally voters. Yet, the elections proved divisive, with the far-right gaining traction, leading Macron to appoint new Prime Minister Michel Barnier after months of indecision. Barnier was later ousted after just 90 days due to backlash against his proposed budget.
The scandal engulfing Abbé Pierre, revered for his humanitarian efforts, shocked the nation when multiple allegations of sexual abuse surfaced. Documents revealed at least 24 women accused the priest, who passed away in 2007, of various forms of misconduct, igniting discussions on abuse within the Church and the broader moral compass of French society.
The Olympic spirit gripped France from late July to early September, featuring vibrant ceremonies held against scenic backdrops, including the Seine River. While the enemy of rain initially threatened to dampen the opening events, joy and optimism prevailed as France hosted the games. The nation celebrated not just the sporting prowess but also its ability to hold eco-friendly events, emphasizing sustainable practices using existing infrastructure. Olympic stars like gymnast Simone Biles and swimmer Léon Marchand inspired audiences, with France securing fifth place on the medal tally.
The Pelicot mass rape trial emerged as one of the most harrowing stories of the year, as 51 defendants faced charges for repeatedly assaulting Gisèle Pelicot, who courageously stepped forward to share her ordeal. This case sparked universal condemnation of drug-facilitated sexual assault and galvanized support for survivors. Following 15 weeks of hearings, all 51 were convicted of their crimes, bringing some semblance of justice to Pelicot and making headlines across the globe.
Adding another layer of drama, far-right leader Marine Le Pen faced trial with 26 co-defendants over accusations of embezzlement relating to EU parliamentary funds. Le Pen vehemently denied all claims and attributed the charges to political motives. The outcome of the trial, expected on March 31, could have significant repercussions for her political career and the future of her party.
The year culminated with the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral after undergoing extensive restoration following the 2019 fire. The cathedral was officially unveiled on December 5, reestablishing itself as one of Paris's emblematic landmarks. Macron took pride in the restoration effort, which incorporated thousands of artisans, and emphasized the importance of preserving historic sites like Notre-Dame as part of France’s national identity.
2024 has shown the resilience of France amid trials and triumphs, encapsulating the enduring spirit of its people from the fields of agriculture to the bright lights of the Olympic Games.
