AVIGNON, France – Gisele Pelicot delivered a powerful condemnation on Tuesday, rebuking the cowardice of dozens of men accused of abusing her over a span of ten years. The abuse, orchestrated by her husband, Dominique Pelicot, involved the drugging and mass rape of Gisele while she was unconscious. Addressing a packed courtroom in Avignon, she called for societal reflection and change, emphasizing the deep roots of patriarchy and sexual violence.
Dominique Pelicot has admitted to drugging his wife and recording the assaults. Police uncovered the extensive evidence, including videos and photographs, revealing Gisele’s ordeal. However, most of the 50 other men on trial have denied culpability, claiming they did not intend to commit rape or asserting they were manipulated by her husband.
Gisele, 71, recounted her horror and disbelief upon learning of her abuse and implored society to confront ingrained misogyny. “For me, this is the trial of cowardice,” she declared. Gisele chose to have the trial held publicly, hoping it would empower other victims to speak out and dismantle the stigma surrounding sexual violence. “Rape is rape,” she stated firmly, questioning the accused on why they did not leave the scene or report the crimes.
The harrowing trial has spotlighted the prevalence of sexual violence and the complicity within societal structures. Footage shown in court depicted the shocking nature of the abuse, with Gisele lying motionless, sometimes snoring, as the assaults took place. Gisele declared she would never forgive her husband, and her children echoed her sentiments, demanding justice and expressing their own trauma.
As the trial nears its conclusion, Dominique Pelicot is set to make a final statement. His lawyer, Beatrice Navarro, commented on his emotional state, acknowledging his guilt but noting his isolation. The court is expected to deliver its verdict and sentencing by December 20.