Laura's death classified as femicide later

Laura, a 93-year-old woman with disabilities, was found dead in her home in Toulouse one month ago. Her presumed murderer, found asleep and intoxicated beside her, was arrested and is now under investigation for murder preceded or followed by rape.

Media narrative delayed classification

Except for an article in La Dépêche du Midi on September 28, Laura’s death was not initially labeled a femicide in the media. It was only two weeks later that Inter Orga Féminicides classified it as such, highlighting a discrepancy in how such cases are framed.

Contrast with another femicide case

Three weeks before Laura’s death, the murder of Sandra, a 40-year-old woman killed by her ex-partner in Launaguet, was immediately labeled the 100th femicide. This contrast has raised questions about the factors influencing media narratives around such crimes.

Media focus on certain victim profiles

Giuseppina Sapio, a professor and deputy director of the Center for Studies on Media, Technologies and Internationalization, explains that media coverage of femicides often focuses on specific victim profiles. She refers to "mediagenicity," noting that some cases are more likely to be highlighted based on factors like the victim’s age, the nature of the crime, and the potential for sensationalism.

Age and disability as overlooked factors

Sapio points out that elderly women, especially those with disabilities, are often overlooked in discussions about gender violence. She references Margot Giacinti’s work, which highlights a historical blind spot regarding the murders of elderly women. Media narratives typically focus on younger victims, particularly those in intimate relationships.

Taboos and stereotypes around elderly women

Sapio notes that the sexuality of elderly women is often ignored or stigmatized in media coverage. This reflects broader societal norms that view women’s bodies as less desirable with age, which can affect how such cases are perceived and reported.

Nationality and racial profiling

Sapio suggests that the nationality of the accused, a Sudanese man, may have influenced how the case was framed. She references the concept of "femonationalism," where the defense of women is intertwined with racist discourses, particularly in right-wing political circles.

Responsibility for naming the crime

Sapio emphasizes that the responsibility for naming a crime as a femicide lies with everyone involved, including journalists, prosecutors, and legal professionals. The term itself does not automatically convey the political and systemic aspects of gender violence.

Impact of terminology on memory

While Sapio does not believe language alone determines reality, she argues that using the correct terminology and crafting ethical narratives can honor a victim’s memory. She believes that naming a crime as a femicide can help ensure that the victim’s life and death are recognized for their political significance.