Representatives from the Bétharram victims' collective had hoped to meet Pope Leo XIV during his visit to France at the end of September. The group, composed of individuals who were sexually assaulted as students at a private Catholic school in the 1990s, sought a meeting to address the trauma they endured and to call for accountability. However, their request was denied by the Conference of Bishops, a body representing Catholic clergy in France. The case of Bétharram, which was publicized in 2024, has become a significant moment in the ongoing debate about sexual violence in private Catholic educational institutions. The victims' decision to speak out led to widespread media coverage and public discussion, highlighting the long-standing issue of abuse within such institutions. Their courage helped to break the silence that had long surrounded these incidents, encouraging others to come forward with their own stories. The denial of the meeting request by the bishops has sparked criticism from some members of the public and advocacy groups. They argue that the Church should engage directly with victims to show solidarity and support. Others believe that the bishops’ response reflects a reluctance to confront the past and take responsibility for the actions of clergy members in the past. The Bétharram case has also contributed to a broader political conversation about the need for institutional reform and greater transparency within religious organizations. As the public continues to demand accountability, the role of the Catholic Church in addressing historical abuse remains a topic of intense scrutiny and debate.