Adweek reported on a petition requesting Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity increase anti-harassment measures beyond the Safe Zones erections, er, erected this year.
The scenario presents another example of Adweek’s contention that “Cannes Lions is a microcosm of the ad industry.”
When DEIBA+ abandonment adversely affects event participants of color, the response involves performative handwringing.
When White women feel uncomfortable, it’s time to rally the troops, draft a petition, and stage a public protest. And the effort will probably shortlist for a Glass Lion.
Yep, Cannes mirrors Adland in regards to cultural cluelessness and systemic racism.
Petition Urges Cannes Lions to Boost Anti-Harassment Efforts, Despite New Safety Measures
Three Safety Zones introduced at this year’s festival didn't do enough to protect attendees, industry professionals say.
By Trishla Ostwal
A petition circulating the ad industry is calling on the Cannes Lions Festival to bolster protections against harassment and assault, urging organizers to strengthen protocols and better publicize support systems for attendees.
While Cannes Lions introduced three designated Safe Zones at this year’s festival, two people familiar with the matter told ADWEEK that unclear protocols and limited access blunted their effectiveness—fueling the push for a more comprehensive approach to safety at future Cannes Lions events.
The petition, started by Emily Roberts, head of digital at Responsible Marketing Advisory and co-founder of The Women in Programmatic Network, had 380 signatures at the time of publication. It calls on Cannes Lions to implement clearer codes of conduct, visible and accessible support spaces, mandatory training for staff and partners, and confidential and trauma-informed reporting mechanisms.
While the petition acknowledges the festival’s existing efforts to curb harassment, it argues that “more can and should be done to protect all participants.”
Cannes Lions introduced three Safe Zones at the 2025 festival, which took place last week. The Safe Zones were staffed by trained professionals and operated 22 hours per day—from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.—to support attendees who felt unsafe or needed help.
The Safe Zones were located inside the main venue at the Palais des Festivals, on the Pantiero Terrace near registration, as well as across the Croisette at La Roseraie park. The measures followed growing pressure for action after several women spoke out about their experiences of sexual harassment and assault during last year’s event, ADWEEK previously reported.
Read the full petition below:
The Issue
Cannes Lions: International Festival of Creativity is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and global collaboration. But for many attendees, concerns about personal safety, particularly regarding sexual harassment and assault, cast a shadow over the experience.
We believe that everyone attending Cannes Lions deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported. While we recognize the efforts made so far, it’s clear that more can and should be done to protect all participants.
We urge Cannes Lions to lead by example and take stronger, proactive steps to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all.
We respectfully call on Cannes Lions to:
• Strengthen and publicize the Code of Conduct to clearly define unacceptable behavior and consequences.
• Provide visible, accessible support resources on-site, including safe spaces and trained personnel.
• Implement mandatory training for staff, volunteers, and partners on harassment prevention and response.
• Establish confidential, trauma-informed reporting mechanisms that protect those who come forward.
By taking these steps, Cannes Lions can set a global standard for safety and accountability in the creative industry. Let’s work together to make Cannes Lions a place where creativity thrives—and everyone feels safe.
ADWEEK has reached out to Cannes Lions for comment.
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