France: Hundreds of activists gather ahead of Gisèle Pelicot rape trial verdict | World News

On By Online Niel

Hundreds of people gathered in the southern French city of Avignon on Saturday ahead of the verdict in a trial in which dozens of men are accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot while she was drugged and left unconscious by her husband.

Gisele Pelicot poses for a photo in Avignon on October 23, 2024, during the trial of her ex-partner, accused of drugging her for nearly ten years and inviting strangers to rape her at home in the small southern town of Mazan. (AFP)
Gisele Pelicot poses for a photo in Avignon on October 23, 2024, during the trial of her ex-partner, accused of drugging her for nearly ten years and inviting strangers to rape her at home in the small southern town of Mazan. (AFP)

Read also: Gisele Pelicot, ‘drugged by husband and raped by strangers’, leaves French court amid loud applause

The court is expected to deliver its verdicts by December 20 in the trial of 51 defendants. Last month, prosecutors asked the jury for the maximum possible sentence for aggravated rape — 20 years — against the victim’s ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, 72.

Read also: Dominique Pelicot reveals why she “became perverted” and started inviting men to rape her drugged-up wife

Gisèle Pelicot, 71, has become an icon for those who fight against sexual violence. She testified during the proceedings about the harrowing events, which attracted the attention of the general public.

Outside the court, demonstrators held signs with messages such as “Victims we believe you, rapists we see you” and “Shame switches sides”.

Read also: Dominique Pelicot’s disturbing remark about why he drugged his wife and invited strangers to rape her

A large banner displayed on one wall read: “Rape has no nationality.” Elsewhere, activists posted notes reading “Kind words for Gisèle” on a fence.

Activist Marine Thebaud, who is a member of the family planning association, said: “We hope that justice will live up to the acts committed against Gisèle, that impunity will end and that people will be punished. We are here to show support for all victims of patriarchal violence.”

Alain Souberan said he joined the assembly because his partner “is a convinced feminist who sings in the Avignon feminist choir”.

“Personally, I really support this move. I think men also have their place as advocates,” he said.

The trial, which began in September, attracted attention beyond France, with Pelicot’s courage in facing her accusers turning her into a symbol for victims of sexual violence.