The testimonies of military personnel or former military personnel reported in the press about harassment and sexual violence suffered at the hands of fellow military personnel are appalling. A message must be conveyed to all victims – both women and men – who carry this burden and question whether they can be considered victims, as they have always been taught that a military person is never a victim because they consent to combat. A military person joins the armed forces of France to protect, never to aggress. Therefore, being sexually harassed or assaulted, even when in the military, makes you a victim – the victim of a fratricidal act that you have a duty to denounce.
Within the armed forces, if a victim speaks out, they must be listened to and heard. Their testimony must be collected and believed. They must then be protected from their assailant or harasser. This testimony must empower victims, not condemn them. It is the harasser or assailant who must be singled out, it is they who must bear the burden. To achieve this, the armed forces, like all institutions of our Republic, must be uncompromising. Uncompromising so that aggressors convicted by the law cannot remain within the institution. Uncompromising in order to prevent any victim from leaving the armed forces, destroyed and tainted. The Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces has reminded the armed forces to promptly take the necessary exemplary sanctions against military personnel who have committed sexual violence, as well as against those who tolerate or minimize them.
We have reminded all of our subordinates of the rules through an instruction on March 26. They are based on a clear obligation: the protection of the victim. When a military personnel or civilian employee of the Ministry of the Armed Forces reports incidents of sexist or sexual violence to their superiors, the command must ensure that they no longer have any contact with the person accused. The victim should not be isolated. A report must be filed promptly with the Public Prosecutor. Now, whenever there is a suspicion of rape or sexual assault that is sufficiently plausible, the accused person will be systematically suspended from their duties. They must then be swiftly and severely punished if the allegations are proven. Finally, we have decided that, in the criminal procedure against a military personnel, the report provided to the prosecutor should simply state the facts for acts of sexual violence.
The measures put in place by the armed forces aim to protect victims, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure that no one within the institution can escape justice. It is crucial to create a culture where reporting and addressing instances of sexual violence is encouraged and where victims are supported and believed. By taking a strong stance against sexual harassment and assault, the armed forces are sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. It is essential for all institutions to prioritize the safety and well-being of their personnel, and to implement strict measures to prevent and address instances of sexual violence. By upholding these principles, the armed forces can create a safer and more respectful environment for all individuals serving within their ranks.
