Gisèle Pelicot, who proclaimed "Shame belongs to the defendants" and spearheaded a change in perception of sexual violence, receives France's highest order.
(PARIS=Yonhap News) Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old French woman who courageously brought the men who sexually assaulted her to public trial, sending a powerful message worldwide, has been awarded the Chevalier (Knight) class of the Legion of Honor, France's highest distinction. According to the French Official Journal, she was selected as a recipient for Bastille Day on July 14th, which is interpreted as official recognition of the positive impact her brave actions had on society.
Painful Truth, and a Courageous Cry
Gisèle Pelicot's ordeal lasted for approximately nine years, from July 2011 to October 2020. At the hands of her then-husband, Dominique Pelicot, she was drugged and brutally sexually assaulted by dozens of unfamiliar men. Her case sent shockwaves through French society, and the courage she displayed during the trial deeply moved many.
In last year's first-instance trial of 50 defendants, Gisèle made an unprecedented and strong demand for the trial to be held publicly. Considering that sexual violence cases are typically held in private to protect the victim's identity and prevent secondary victimization, her request was highly unconventional. This was a clear expression of her willingness to endure the pressure and societal scrutiny that could be placed on a victim during the trial.
In the courtroom, she firmly stated, "Shame should belong to the defendants, not the victims," directly challenging the social prejudice that has long stigmatized victims of sexual violence. This statement is widely regarded as having played a decisive role in changing perceptions of sexual violence perpetrators and victims not only in France but across the globe. Her brave voice offered great comfort and courage to countless female victims of sexual violence, and Gisèle quickly became an icon for sexual violence victim rights movements.
Gisèle Pelicot's Impact Driving Social Change
Gisèle Pelicot's case served as an important catalyst, encouraging victims of sexual violence to no longer remain silent and to speak out. Her actions raised social awareness of sexual violence crimes and contributed to the widespread recognition that victim-centered approaches must become more important within the judicial system. French legal circles and human rights organizations expect her courageous actions to positively influence discussions on improving sexual violence-related laws and trial procedures.
In particular, her demand for a public trial and her message that "shame belongs to the perpetrator" had a profound impact in dispelling the social stigma and blame that constitute the largest proportion of secondary victimization experienced by survivors of sexual violence. A primary reason many victims fear speaking openly about their experiences is the criticism and shame they anticipate. Gisèle shattered these stereotypes, delivering a powerful message of solidarity to victims: "The fault is not yours."
Global Recognition and France's Highest Honor
Gisèle Pelicot's influence has been recognized internationally, extending beyond France. In March of this year, she was named one of Time Magazine's "Women of the Year 2025," once again acknowledging her contributions. This signifies that her courage went beyond an individual issue and contributed to the advancement of women's rights worldwide.
The Legion of Honor, to be awarded this time, is France's highest honor, established by Napoleon I in 1802. It is conferred upon individuals who have rendered outstanding service not only in military achievements but also in various fields such as French politics, economy, society, culture, and sports. The Legion of Honor is divided into five classes: Grand-Croix (Grand Cross), Grand Officier (Grand Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Officier (Officer), and Chevalier (Knight). Gisèle Pelicot will receive the Chevalier class.
Gisèle Pelicot's conferment of the Legion of Honor is a symbolic event demonstrating how the courage of one individual can transform the perception and culture of an entire society. Her story will continue to inspire and empower many, serving as a reminder of the ongoing importance of efforts to create a safer society free from sexual violence.
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