Dominique Pelicot, aged 71, is on trial for drugging his ex-wife and handing her over to strangers to be raped. His victim, Gisèle Pelicot, also aged 71, spoke on Monday 16 September, just before the hearing resumed, to express her gratitude to the many people who had shown her their support

An emotional speech ‘I would like to sincerely thank all the people who have supported me since the beginning of this ordeal,’ she declared, referring to the many messages and gestures of solidarity she had received. She paid particular tribute to those who had rallied in her honour across France on the previous Saturday.

A nationwide show of solidarity The aim of these demonstrations, which were attended by a large number of supporters, was to denounce the violence to which she has been subjected and to give her the strength she needs to face this trying trial.

‘You are not alone
Gisèle Pelicot, now a leading figure in the fight against sexual violence, expressed her commitment during her speech at her ex-husband’s trial. She declared that she is now leading a real ‘fight’, which she dedicates to all victims of sexual violence, whether women or men, throughout the world.

A message of hope for victims
‘I want to say to all these victims today: look around you, you are not alone’, she proclaimed forcefully, underlining the importance of solidarity in these difficult times.

A wave of national support
On Saturday 14 September, numerous demonstrations were held in support of Gisèle Pelicot, at the initiative of feminist organisations. Rallies were held in a number of French cities, including Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux, Rennes, Nice and Annecy, testifying to the national mobilisation.

A trial under high tension
Gisèle Pelicot, who wanted her ex-husband’s trial not to take place behind closed doors, is today the embodiment of the fight against chemical submission. However, because of Dominique Pelicot’s health problems, there is still some uncertainty as to how the trial will proceed.