In November 2019, Adèle Haenel’s statements on Mediapart, as well as the article published by journalist Marine Turchi accompanying these statements, were delivered in the form of political reflection to the film and audiovisual industry, thus bringing it face to face with its responsibilities. They have forced the industry to question itself, and to question its propensity to hold the law aside, to promote silence and impunity, neglecting or even silencing victims’ voices. In light of this political and media-led phenomenon, it is essential today to build a collective thought process common to the entire profession and to remind that this sector does not benefit from any exceptional regime regarding the respect of labor law. It is urgent to recall the applicable law, and to make use and if necessary, invent the tools, to fight against harassment and sexual violence.

As they are convergent, numerous and undeniable, testimonies of victims of harassment and sexual violence have highlighted what the film and audiovisual industry has too often denied. These testimonies shed light on the blind spot existing between law (criminal law and labor law) and practice. The Summit aimed to re-establish this junction between common law and our sector, and to consider the elaboration of specific tools.

The Summit also followed the announcement made by the Minister of Culture regarding his decision to render public aid conditional to the proper application of measures to prevent and combat harassment and sexual violence in the cinematographic and audiovisual sector. This announcement was made during the second Conference for Equality, Parity and Diversity in the Film and Audiovisual Industry, organised by Collectif 50/50 in November 2019. 

Gathered at the Summit, Collectif 50/50 invited the entire profession – unions, professional organisations and associations – to communicate on the initiatives already in place and to think about new means of prevention and action.

Recording of the Summit :