Pelicot Takes Public Stance on Trial Proceedings and Future Meeting
Pelicot refused closed trial and signaled intent to meet her imprisoned ex-husband.
Event / Society
Gisèle Pelicot Advocacy
Gisèle Pelicot, victim of systematic sexual assault, receives international recognition for her advocacy against sexual violence and public stance on her legal proceedings.
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2026-09-06 to 2026-11-06 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 6 Sept, 19:23 UTC
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What happened
Gisèle Pelicot refused closed trial proceedings
During her trial against her ex-husband and his alleged accomplices, Gisèle Pelicot refused to proceed with closed-door hearings (huis clos), choosing instead to make her case public. She stated her intention was to shift the burden of shame from victims to perpetrators.
Gisèle Pelicot organized sexual assault by ex-husband Dominique Pelicot
Dominique Pelicot organized and facilitated systematic sexual assaults against Gisèle Pelicot by drugging her and arranging for dozens of men to assault her in Mazan, Vaucluse. These assaults were documented in her book 'Et la joie de vivre' published the previous year.
Gisèle Pelicot receives DVF award for advocacy against sexual violence
Gisèle Pelicot, 73, was honored at the DVF awards ceremony in Venice on September 3 for her advocacy against sexual violence. The award recognized her public stance during her legal proceedings against those accused of assaulting her.
Gisèle Pelicot published memoir on sexual assault and recovery
Gisèle Pelicot published a book titled 'Et la joie de vivre' (And the Joy of Living) in which she recounts her experiences with the organized sexual assaults, the drugging by her ex-husband, and her journey toward recovery. The book aims to provide hope and encouragement to other survivors.
Gisèle Pelicot expresses intention to meet imprisoned ex-husband
Gisèle Pelicot stated her desire to meet with her ex-husband Dominique Pelicot in prison and have a direct conversation with him. She described this meeting as an important step in her personal reconstruction, saying she needs to ask him questions and seek answers about what happened to her.
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Pelicot recognized internationally for advocacy against sexual violence
Pelicot received international DVF award for advocacy against sexual violence and published memoir on recovery.