Paris protests support woman allegedly drugged and raped, October 2023
- Gisele Pelicot, a 71-year-old woman, was allegedly drugged by her ex-husband for a decade, leading to her being raped by numerous men.
- Protests in support of Gisele and other victims of sexual violence took place in Paris and other French cities, highlighting the issue of unreported sexual violence.
- The case has ignited a national conversation about rape culture and the treatment of victims, emphasizing the need for systemic change.
In October 2023, protests erupted in France, particularly in Paris, where around 700 people gathered to support Gisele Pelicot, a 71-year-old woman who has become a symbol of the fight against sexual violence. Ms. Pelicot's ex-husband allegedly drugged her for a decade, allowing at least 72 men to rape her while she was unconscious. This shocking case has highlighted the pervasive issue of unreported sexual violence in the country. Activists, including Anna Toumazoff, emphasized the need to address rape culture and support victims. The protests were not limited to Paris; similar gatherings occurred in other cities, including Marseille, where about 200 people showed solidarity. Participants carried placards voicing their support for Gisele and all victims of sexual abuse. The public outcry reflects a growing awareness and demand for justice in cases of sexual violence, which often go unpunished. Gisele Pelicot chose to publicly share her story, allowing the media to cover her trial openly, which included the airing of explicit videos recorded by her husband. This decision was made to stand in solidarity with other victims who remain silent due to stigma and fear. Her testimony revealed the brutal reality of her experiences, describing how the men treated her with utter disregard. The trial involves her former husband and 50 other men, all facing serious charges of aggravated rape. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison. The case has sparked a national conversation about the treatment of sexual violence victims and the urgent need for systemic change in how such cases are handled in France.