France is once again looking to Gisèle Pelicot as she prepares to face one of her alleged rapists in court. This marks a significant moment, especially as the country grapples with the aftermath of a trial that saw 51 convictions for the mass rape of Madame Pelicot, who was drugged by her husband and subjected to horrific abuse in her own home.
Pelicot’s public strength and her powerful statement that “shame should change sides” – moving from victim to perpetrator – were initially hailed as a turning point in France’s #MeToo movement. However, a year later, the initial optimism seems to be waning, and the enthusiasm for change is reportedly wilting.
Locals in Mazan, the town where the atrocities occurred, express a weariness with the case, with one resident even threatening the press for bringing attention to it. This sentiment is echoed by some officials, like the mayor of Mazan, who has sought to distance the town from the harrowing events, emphasizing that it was a “private matter.” This perspective, however, contrasts sharply with the views of many women who feel the Pelicot case has indeed empowered them to speak out more freely, despite the perceived lack of systemic change.
Campaigners like Alyssa Ahrabare and Céline Piques from feminist organizations acknowledge the mobilization spurred by Pelicot’s courage, noting a tripling of reported rape cases as a sign that victims are coming forward. Yet, they also highlight a concerning backlash, with the rise of masculinist movements and deep-fake pornography contributing to a climate that still challenges the fight against sexual violence. Despite increased government spending in this area, a recent Senate report criticized the government for lacking a clear strategy, and international bodies have also raised concerns about France’s efforts to protect women.
Recent legal developments, such as the conviction of actor Gérard Depardieu and the arrest of a tanker captain linked to a Russian “shadow fleet,” offer glimmers of hope. However, lawyers like Emmanuelle Rivier express skepticism about significant progress, pointing to understaffing and a lack of specialized training within police and judicial systems. The true legacy of Gisèle Pelicot’s bravery may only become clear over time, but for now, the fight for justice and a tangible shift in societal attitudes continues, with many believing that much more needs to be done to truly tackle the pervasive issue of sexual violence in France.