France’s Justice System Under Fire After Girl’s Murder

France has been plunged into a political and social crisis following the murder of an 11-year-old girl, a case that has exposed serious failings in the justice system.

The main suspect had been under investigation since August 2025 after being accused of raping a minor, but prosecutors in the town of Auch did not question him until his arrest over Lyhanna’s disappearance. He was later placed under formal investigation on kidnapping and murder charges.

The tragedy has sparked mass protests across the country, with tens of thousands of people demanding stronger child protection and greater state accountability. Prosecutors warn that they are overstretched and have long struggled with staff and funding shortages.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has acknowledged serious state failures but refused to resign. The government has ordered an investigation into the handling of Lyhanna’s case, along with a review of some 70,000 ongoing allegations of violence against minors.

Critics say the problem is systemic and that similar tragedies will be impossible to prevent without significantly strengthening the judiciary.

(reuters, mja)