The Catholic Church in France announced that abuse victims will receive financial compensation, following similar moves in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland.

The French Bishops" Conference voted in favor of the move during their biannual conference in the southwestern town of Lourdes. They did not agree on the exact amount but said that the payment should be a lump sum.

According to the agreement, any person who was a minor at the time of the abuse and who is recognized by their bishop as a victim will be eligible to receive money. The fund will be financed by the church, although the bishops said that those responsible for the abuse should also be held accountable financially.