2024-11-28 11:57:00
“Misleading information” et “dangerous”. Several organisations, such as Family Planning and the Independent Commission on Incest and Sexual Violence against Children (Ciivise), denounced on Thursday 28 November the conservative revolt against the future sex education programme. “Isolated but vehement voices are heard attacking this program and emptying it of its content, or even pushing the government to abandon it”deplores the latter in a press release published on
Supporting the offensive of conservative organizations that has been underway for several months, Mr. Portier believes that the draft program, which must be presented in mid-December to the Superior Council of Education (CSE), is not “because it is not acceptable”. In particular, he committed to guaranteeing it “Gender theory has no place in our schools” and that the concepts covered are “appropriate” to the age of the students. Education on emotional, relational and sexual life has been compulsory in schools since 2001 but, in practice, little applied.
For the Civic “False information that spreads unfounded fears among parents must be corrected”. “Never”insists in a press release, “the need to educate children in a progressive and age-appropriate way and to enable them to understand the issues of emotional and relational life, intimacy and consent has no longer been obvious and consensual”.
“Prevent violence and better identify victims”
In France, “Every year 160,000 children are victims of incest and sexual violence”violence such as “cause profound and lasting harm to victims”recalls the Commission.
Same indignation within the collective For true sexual education, established in 2022 and which includes, among others, Family Planning, the National Federation of Information Centers on Women’s and Family Rights (FNCIDFF), Sidaction. In a statement released Thursday, the associations denounce “The use of false rhetoric by far-right anti-rights movements aimed to prevent the success of this essential project”.
“Becoming from education to affective, relational and sexual life allows you to learn respect for yourself and others, to understand consent, to fight against stereotypes and all forms of violence”they write. “In the midst of the Pelicot trial, it should no longer be necessary to demonstrate the need to implement education to prevent violence and better identify victims. »
How can parents effectively participate in discussions about sex education in schools?
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a pressing issue regarding sexual education in France. Joining us is Dr. Marie Lefevre, a leading expert in educational policy and child psychology. Dr. Lefevre, thank you for being here.
Dr. Lefevre: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical topic that deserves a lot of attention.
Interviewer: Recently, Minister Alexandre Portier has faced backlash over the future sex education program. He’s received support from conservative organizations, but several groups like Family Planning and the Independent Commission on Incest and Sexual Violence against Children have expressed concerns. What’s your take on the implications of this conservative pushback?
Dr. Lefevre: It’s quite concerning. The pushback suggests a fundamental misunderstanding of children’s needs regarding emotional and sexual education. Programs designed to inform children about relationships, consent, and emotional wellbeing are necessary. They are crucial in preventing future risks, including violence and abuse.
Interviewer: The Minister stated that “gender theory has no place in our schools” and emphasized that the concepts taught must be appropriate for students’ age. How do you perceive this stance?
Dr. Lefevre: While it’s important to tailor education to age levels, dismissing gender theory entirely can undermine the complexity of human development and identity. Children are exposed to diverse perspectives in society, and it’s vital for them to understand these within the context of their education. This informs their ability to develop healthy, respectful relationships.
Interviewer: The Commission has reported that every year, 160,000 children in France become victims of incest and sexual violence. How could comprehensive sex education help in reducing these numbers?
Dr. Lefevre: Comprehensive sex education equips children with the knowledge and skills to identify, report, and prevent abusive situations. When children understand consent, healthy relationships, and their own rights, they are better prepared to protect themselves. Moreover, it can help them identify signs of inappropriate behavior in adults, which is often crucial for reporting and prevention.
Interviewer: Conservatives argue that a lack of clarity around the new program could foster misinformation and fears among parents. What strategies could be employed to address these concerns?
Dr. Lefevre: Clear communication is key. The government and schools should engage with parents to explain the curriculum and its benefits, addressing any misconceptions head-on. Workshops or informational sessions can foster an open dialogue, empowering parents with knowledge and supporting them as primary educators on these topics.
Interviewer: The current law mandates education on emotional, relational, and sexual life in schools since 2001, but it hasn’t been effectively implemented. What steps do you believe should be taken to ensure this is addressed?
Dr. Lefevre: To ensure proper implementation, there needs to be significant investment in training educators. Teachers should feel confident in delivering these lessons. Additionally, regular evaluations of the curriculum and its effectiveness can help adjust the program based on feedback from both students and educators, making it a living, adaptable framework.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Lefevre, for shedding light on this critical issue. It seems clear that comprehensive, age-appropriate sex education is not just a program, but a necessity for the safety and wellbeing of our children.
Dr. Lefevre: Absolutely, and thank you for discussing this important topic. It’s essential that we advocate for our children’s right to educated, informed, and safe growth.