French parliament unanimously backs rollout of specialized hospital units for abused children
Deputies voted unanimously to implement 164 specialized hospital units for children in danger, guaranteeing their funding.
In a unanimous vote, the Social Affairs Committee adopted an amendment to establish 164 specialized pediatric units for children in danger, matching the government's 2027 goal. The legislation mandates a minimum of one unit per judicial district and at least two regional pediatric teams per region, aiming to close existing territorial gaps. Lawmakers highlighted that these units will deliver multidisciplinary support—medical, psychological, investigative and social—so victims no longer have to recount abuse multiple times.
Additional provisions allow a tripartite meeting when sick leave exceeds a month and introduce territorial solidarity missions with specific compensation for doctors working in medical deserts. Debate surfaced over physician placement regulation, with some arguing that financial aid alone will not solve the issue. Overall, the measure seeks to strengthen coordinated care for children suffering physical, psychological, sexual or domestic violence.
Why it matters
It secures nationwide, multidisciplinary care for abused children, addressing a critical gap in France's child protection system.
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