France will eliminate the notion of 'conjugal rights', clarifying that marriage does not impose the obligation to have sexual relations, in order to combat marital rape.

France has approved a bill that abolishes the notion of 'conjugal rights', stating that marriage does not imply an obligation to have sexual relations. This amendment in the civil code clarifies that the lack of sexual relations cannot be used as a reason for divorce based on fault. Supporters of the law, such as deputy Marie-Charlotte Garin, argue that maintaining such an obligation legitimizes a system of domination over wives. Although there is no explicit mention of 'conjugal rights' in current legislation, interpretations by judges in divorce proceedings have sometimes included sexual relations in 'the community of life'. A recent decision by the European Court of Human Rights condemned France for using the lack of sexual relations as a reason for divorce, which necessitated this legal clarification.

Feminist activists believe that the notion of 'sexual duty' persists in society and must be combated, in the context where marital rape is now punishable by law. The recently adopted law also expands the definition of rape to include the lack of consent, emphasizing the importance of informed and revocable consent.