Gisèle Pelicot says trial was for sexual violence survivors

Gisèle Pelicot said her public trial and the support of women outside the Avignon court strengthened her, and she spoke about these experiences at the UK launch of her memoir A Hymn to Life.

Gisèle Pelicot spoke at the UK launch of her memoir, A Hymn to Life, at the Southbank Centre in London. She described why she waived her anonymity and pursued a public trial in France. The trial led to convictions and prison sentences in 2024. Ms Pelicot said the presence of women at the courthouse and the letters she received from survivors gave her strength during the proceedings. Key details: - Ms Pelicot said she chose a public trial and framed it as standing for other survivors of sexual violence. - The article reports that 51 men were convicted and received prison sentences in 2024 after the case was heard in Avignon. - She described drawing strength from women who gathered outside the court and from letters sent by survivors around the world. - The memoir, written with Judith Perrignon and published by Bodley Head, was launched in the UK with readings by actors at the event. Summary: Ms Pelicot presented her trial as not only a personal legal step but also a moment she linked to other survivors' experiences, and she spoke of the personal cost the case had on her family. She said she intends to live serenely and to continue offering support to women who seek it. Undetermined at this time.