What's happened
The trial of Dominique Pelicot and 50 co-defendants accused of drugging and raping his ex-wife, Gisèle Pelicot, is ongoing in France. The case has drawn significant public attention due to its shocking nature and the extensive evidence presented, including thousands of videos and photos documenting the abuse.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Dominique Pelicot admitted to drugging his wife and facilitating the rapes, stating, 'I am a rapist, just like everyone else in this courtroom.' This admission has fueled public outrage and highlighted the complicity of the defendants. Metro reported that Gisèle Pelicot has faced victim-blaming during the trial, asserting, 'Not for a second did I give my consent.' This reflects ongoing societal challenges in addressing sexual violence and supporting victims. The Independent also noted that the trial has drawn attention to the inadequacies in France's legal response to sexual violence, with advocates calling for systemic change.
How we got here
Dominique Pelicot is accused of drugging his wife over a decade, allowing men to rape her while she was unconscious. The trial began in September 2024, revealing a disturbing pattern of abuse and complicity among the defendants, many of whom deny the charges.
More on these topics