French Court Debates 'Rape By Surprise' In Blind Dating Case

A French court has requested an analysis regarding the necessity of forcing users to declare their gender if it is not required for service processing. This could impact traditional forms of address, potentially making them unacceptable under the law. Swedes introduced a 'du-reform' in the 1960s, transitioning from formal address to using first names. The French Constitutional Council validated a mechanism on April 16, 2026, that allows state funding for political parties to be modulated if they do not present a sufficient number of women. This mechanism ensures equality in suffrage, which includes the ability to be a candidate, be elected, and access responsibilities. The case involves a man who allegedly deceived women on dating apps by not revealing his true appearance until after the act. An attorney for one of the victims is reportedly a guest on the program.