Is spanking illegal in France?

Yes. Spanking is banned in France. Since 2019 even a smack on your own kid's bottom is illegal here.

Law 2019-721 of 10 Jul 2019 added to Civil Code art. 371-1 that parental authority is exercised without physical or psychological violence. Listed as full prohibition by End Corporal Punishment (countdown, 2025).

Source: Loi 2019-721, Jul 2019

Banned (69)Allowed

France is one of 69 countries where spanking is banned.
Its neighbours: banned in 5 of 8.
In Europe: banned in 30 of 39 countries.

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Other countries that ban spanking

Romania All 69 on the map ›

What else is banned in France

Pit bulls Phones in schools Surrogacy Plastic bags Potassium bromate Pufferfish Anti-personnel landmines Titanium dioxide (E171)Plastic glitter Declawing cats Nicotine pouches Animal testing for makeup Azodicarbonamide (the yoga mat chemical)Asbestos Chlorinated chicken Corporal punishment in schools Everything for France ›

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