PARIS — On Saturday, a significant number of demonstrators gathered in Paris and across various French cities to protest against femicides and the pervasive issues of sexual and gender-based violence.

In the capital, a large assembly of both women and men took to the streets, brandishing purple signs that condemned such violence while advocating for women’s reproductive rights.

Amidst the protests, many voiced concerns over the potential erosion of women’s rights following the recent election of U.S. President Donald Trump, a sentiment that has compounded feelings of unease regarding women’s issues globally. Additionally, demonstrators expressed their support for Gisèle Pélicot, whose distressing case against her former spouse, along with a number of other men accused of sexually assaulting her while she was incapacitated, has sparked outrage and discussions around sexual violence in France.

Maelle Noir, a member of the feminist group “Nous Toutes” (which means “All of us”), reflected on the alarming reality that perpetrators of violence can be anyone. “It can be our brothers, our fathers, our colleagues, or even our bosses. This realization has been quite shocking for many people,” she stated.

Noir emphasized that there is no stereotypical profile for a rapist or a victim, highlighting the complexities surrounding these issues.

The organizers of the protest called for greater governmental investment in addressing sexual and gender-based violence, as well as measures to promote gender equality in society.