Reactions to verdicts in Gisele Pelicot rape trial

Verdict at the Mazan mass rape trial in Avignon

A banner which reads " Thank you Gisele" hangs on the city wall as people gather in support of Frenchwoman Gisele Pelicot, the victim of an alleged mass rape orchestrated by her then-husband Dominique Pelicot at their home in the southern French town of Mazan, during the verdict in the trial for Dominique Pelicot and 50 co-accused, in front of the courthouse in Avignon, France, December 19, 2024. REUTERS/Alexandre Dimou

Source: REUTERS

A French court found Dominique Pelicot guilty on Thursday of repeatedly drugging and raping his wife for almost a decade, and inviting dozens of strangers to rape her unconscious body.

All the Frenchman's 50 co-defendants were also found guilty of rape, attempted rape or sexual assault.

Below are some of the reactions to a trial that shocked the world.

GERMAN CHANCELLOR OLAF SCHOLZ

"The shame must change sides. Thank you, Gisele Pelicot! You courageously went from anonymity to a public figure and fought for justice. You gave women around the world a strong voice. The shame always lies with the perpetrator."

SPANISH PRIME MINISTER PEDRO SANCHEZ

"What dignity. Thank you, Gisele Pelicot."

YAEL BRAUN-PIVET, PRESIDENT OF FRANCE'S NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

"Thank you for your courage Gisèle Pélicot...The world is no longer the same thanks to you."

FRENCH FAR-RIGHT LEADER JORDAN BARDELLA

"By facing her accused and refusing to let the case be heard behind closed doors, Gisele Pelicot demonstrated courage and dignity that moved France. May this trial once again free people to speak, for the benefit of all victims."

This article was produced by Reuters news agency. It has not been edited by Global South World.

By Reuters