Wolf-whistling at women in France could soon land men with a €350 fine.
A parliamentary group set up by gender equality minister Marlène Schiappa has recommended tough new laws to crack down on France's "macho culture", by making it illegal to create an "intimidating, hostile or offensive situation" or be "injurious to the dignity of others because of their gender or sexual orientation".
Wolf-whistling, being obscene or pestering women would be an offence, with fines ranging from €90 (NZ$152) to €350 (NZ$592).
The new legislation is expected within months, media reported.
France is also expected to update its minimum age for consenting to sex, which is presently only five years of age. Men accused of sexually assaulting children in recent years been charged with sexual abuse of a minor under 15, not rape.
In a recent case in Paris, the lawyer for the accused argued his client's alleged victim was "nearly 12" and therefore "not a child". In 2009, a 30-year-old man was acquitted after having sex with an 11-year-old because the jury found she was a willing participant.
Sexual abuse carries a prison sentence up to five years, but rape is punishable with up to 20 years behind bars.
Newshub.
