Marlène Schiappa is a French politician and author known for her outspoken advocacy for gender equality and her prominent role in French government. Born in Paris in 1982, she rose to national prominence through her activism and writing on feminist issues, particularly focusing on practical solutions for working mothers and combatting sexism in everyday life.

Before entering politics, Schiappa gained recognition as a blogger and author. Her blog, “Maman Travaille” (Working Mom), provided advice and resources for mothers balancing career and family. She also authored several books addressing issues such as work-life balance, sexual harassment, and the challenges faced by women in French society. This work established her as a leading voice in the French feminist movement and laid the groundwork for her later political career.

Schiappa’s political career took off with her appointment as Secretary of State for Gender Equality in 2017, under President Emmanuel Macron. In this role, she spearheaded significant legislative changes aimed at tackling sexual harassment and gender-based violence. One of her most notable achievements was the passage of a law imposing on-the-spot fines for street harassment, making France one of the first countries to criminalize such behavior. This initiative sparked considerable debate, but Schiappa defended it as a necessary step towards creating a safer public space for women.

During her tenure, Schiappa also focused on promoting gender equality in the workplace, advocating for equal pay and increased representation of women in leadership positions. She actively campaigned against sexism in the media and popular culture, challenging stereotypes and promoting positive portrayals of women. Her efforts often involved public awareness campaigns and collaborations with various organizations working on gender equality.

Following her role as Secretary of State for Gender Equality, Schiappa held other ministerial positions, including Minister Delegate in charge of Citizenship, and later, Minister Delegate in charge of the Social Economy and Associations. These roles expanded her portfolio to encompass issues such as secularism, integration, and the promotion of social entrepreneurship.

Schiappa’s political career has not been without controversy. She has faced criticism for her sometimes confrontational style and for certain policy choices that have drawn opposition from various groups. Nevertheless, she remains a prominent and influential figure in French politics, continuing to advocate for gender equality and social justice. Her unwavering commitment to these issues has solidified her position as a key player in shaping social policy in France.