Symposium: Sexual Health in France: the current situation (professions, interventions and public health)

organised by the AIUS

Overview and perspectives on the emotional and sexual life of people with disabilities in France

In France, the emotional and sexual life of people with disabilities is too often fraught with difficulties. France operates within the framework of international human rights protections. Notably the Istanbul Convention and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). These agreements emphasize the need to ensure that people with disabilities (PWD) have access to a fulfilling affective and sexual life, respecting their fundamental rights to self-determination, bodily integrity, and equality.

In this context, France has introduced several noteworthy initiatives. IntimAgir centers provide a framework and directory for guidance on intimate and sexual life for PWD. While solutions like HandiGynéco and Cap Parent improve access to sexual and reproductive healthcare. These advances address a crucial need for tailored and personalized support for people concerned.

However, many challenges remain. Access to intimacy is still hindered by restrictive institutional policies, a lack of training among professionals, and deeply ingrained societal ableism. The issue of deinstitutionalization is key. Without adequate support for independent living, autonomy and affective life for PWD remain severely compromised. Similarly, comprehensive sex education remains insufficient and unevenly provided, increasing vulnerabilities to violence and discrimination.

Moving forward, France must strengthen the implementation of its international commitments. It also has to develop more inclusive policies, ensuring that PWD are fully included into all sexual health and reproductive rights programs. Recognizing the diversity of experiences and needs is crucial to guaranteeing a free and chosen affective and sexual life for all.