The trial of Dominique Pelicot, who stands accused of drugging his wife Gisèle and facilitating her sexual assault by other men, is sending shockwaves not just through France, but globally. Alongside Pelicot, fifty other men are facing similar charges in what has become a highly publicized case. In a striking revelation, Pelicot has admitted to rape, igniting significant media coverage and public outcry.
While Pelicot has become a focal point of the trial, it is Gisèle Pelicot who has resonated with many across the nation. Demonstrations in support of her have erupted in cities and towns all over France, as people rally against “rape culture.” A recent open letter from four parliament members praised her bravery and called for a reevaluation of rape laws in France, elevating Gisèle to the status of a “feminist icon,” according to the New York Times.
In a thoughtful decision, Gisèle has chosen to waive the anonymity typically granted to victims of sexual assault, opting to attend the trial sessions in Avignon. She aims to shift the stigma from victims to the alleged perpetrators.
Angelique Chrisafis, the Guardian’s France correspondent, described the significance of covering the Pelicot case, particularly given its shocking scale and the rare public nature of the trial—something Gisèle insisted upon. “Gisèle Pelicot wanted the trial to be public to highlight the role of drugs in sexual abuse,” Angelique explained. “Her lawyer has emphasized the importance of presenting public video evidence to capture the true horror of what transpired. Gisèle believes that even though the harm has occurred, if her experience can help prevent others from suffering similar fates, her ordeal serves a purpose.”
Typically, rape trials rely heavily on the victim’s testimony, but this case presents a unique situation. Gisèle has no recollection of the event due to being drugged and rendered comatose. The primary defendant has admitted to rape and has preserved extensive video evidence, complicating the case further. “The lack of the victim’s memory stands in stark contrast to most rape trials, where the victim’s testimony is central,” Angelique remarked. “In this instance, the video evidence is crucial; without it, the trial may not have advanced.”
The trial has also ignited broader discussions regarding consent and the interpretation of sexual acts, especially in relation to online interactions and pornography. Gisèle’s statements have made it clear that under her circumstances, consent was impossible.
“Some of the accused have expressed remorse and taken responsibility in court, while others argue they were misled into thinking Gisèle was merely pretending to be asleep, under social pressure,” Angelique noted. “This raises critical questions about society’s understanding of consent and is sparking a significant debate about establishing clear affirmative consent in France’s rape legislation.”
Could this case signal a turning point in societal attitudes toward sexual violence? “Many observers believe it challenges the stereotype that rapists are always strangers or ‘monsters.’ It reveals the very real threats women face even within domestic environments,” Angelique argued. “Some of the accused are esteemed members of the community—doctors, leaders—which has left many people in shock.”
Protests supporting Gisèle feature powerful slogans like “We are all Gisèle” and “Rapist, we see you; victim, we believe you.” Graffiti across cities echoes sentiments such as “Ordinary men, horrible crimes,” while banners proclaim “Shame must change sides,” reflecting Gisèle’s own words.
As the trial progresses, it could signify a pivotal shift in how society perceives victims of sexual violence. “Gisèle’s story embodies the archetype of an innocent victim—she is a grandmother, unaware of the assaults against her,” Angelique observed. However, as in many rape trials, her character has been scrutinized, with defense attorneys probing her sexual history and motivations.
Angelique added, “Gisèle has expressed feelings of humiliation while facing such intrusive questioning in court. The public nature of this trial allows a broader audience to witness the harsh realities of a rape trial.”
One woman attending the trial to support Gisèle pointed out that the case was “so beyond comprehension” that she felt the need to gain a deeper understanding. Her takeaway was clear: “Things have to change.”
