France"s new prime minister faces backlash over past anti-gay votes

Michel Barnier, appointed as France's new prime minister, has faced criticism due to his past votes against gay rights. In 1981, he was among 155 conservative lawmakers who voted against a law decriminalizing young homosexuals, a decision that has resurfaced as a point of contention following his recent appointment. This vote occurred during a time when the age of consent for homosexual relations was significantly higher than for heterosexual relations, reflecting systemic discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Barnier also voted against a progressive amendment in April 1980 that aimed to abolish laws targeting homosexuals, which were remnants of the Vichy regime. His actions have drawn scrutiny from political figures, including far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who questioned the implications of Barnier's appointment following the tenure of Gabriel Attal, France's first openly gay prime minister. Antoine Idier, a researcher of LGBTQ+ history, highlighted the historical context of Barnier's votes, emphasizing the discriminatory nature of the laws at the time. The age of consent for homosexuals was not equalized with that of heterosexuals until 1982, a change Barnier opposed. As Barnier takes office, observers are keen to see if he will support a draft law introduced in 2022 that seeks to indemnify individuals punished for homosexuality between 1942 and 1982. His response to this legislation may determine whether he can move past his controversial history and facilitate progress on LGBTQ+ rights in France.