Gisèle Pelicot calls for change in society's view on rape during court statement in Avignon

Gisèle Pelicot, a French woman who was drugged and allegedly raped by dozens of men over a decade, addressed the court in Avignon, calling for a change in society's attitude towards rape. She emphasized the need to confront the normalization of such violence. Pelicot's ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, has admitted to drugging her and facilitating the assaults. A total of 51 men are on trial, with some admitting to rape while others deny knowing she was drugged. The trial aims to raise awareness about drug-facilitated sexual violence. Pelicot described the trial as a reflection of societal cowardice regarding rape. She expressed that the trauma she endured has left lasting scars, stating, “I’ve lost 10 years of my life that I’ll never make up for.” The trial is set to continue until December 20.