When interviewed by France Info following the publication of a report by the Senate's Women's Rights Delegation on the pornography industry, Justine Atlan, the association's director general, stated:
« Almost a generation of children has been exposed to pornographic content without any awareness on the part of adults.. It is only very recently that adults, whoever they may be, have realised how commonly, extensively and easily their children are exposed to pornographic content, whereas obviously, I would remind you that It is completely illegal.«
She also reiterated the law, which was strengthened two years ago and stipulates that it is no longer sufficient to ask an internet user whether or not they are 18 years old to access a pornographic website, but that a means of verifying that they are indeed 18 years old must be provided. This obligation applies to all pornographic websites.
And notes: «Cit has been two years since this law does not apply. There are several legal proceedings underway, and I must say that’It is somewhat disheartening to see that the justice system itself lacks the courage to punish pornographic websites.. »
More generally, it raises the question of’the usefulness of giving a smartphone to a child starting secondary school, or even earlier. « Perhaps we could bring back simple phones. Many parents want to give their children smartphones just so they can make phone calls, not necessarily so they can access the internet. There may also be scope to explore the possibility of be able to offer young people a phone with calls and texts without necessarily having internet access. »she suggests.
To learn more about the Senate Report
Watch the programme Public meaning (Public Sénat): Pornography, behind the scenes
Our articles on the subject
Justine Atlan on France Info: “TikTok's short content acts like dopamine shots.”
Libération – Véronique Béchu warns, “Infants and very young children are easy targets for paedophiles.”
AI danger: when artificial intelligence exposes minors to sexual content.
RMC Info – Social media exposes young people too early, warns Justine Atlan
