Politics

Why French mass rape trial has torpedoed the idea that women can ever be truly safe

Thrust into the global spotlight last week as the victim in France’s worst mass rape case, Gisele Pelicot has conducted herself with an almost superhuman courage and dignity. But her dignity, as she has explicitly stated, is not just a coping strategy, it is also a political act.

Gisele Pelicot leaves Avignon courthouse last week. Photo: Getty Thrust into the global spotlight last week as the victim in France’s worst mass rape case, Gisele Pelicot has conducted herself with an almost superhuman courage and dignity. But her dignity, as she has explicitly stated, is not just a coping strategy, it is also a political act.

When she holds her head high walking out of court each day, she is doing it not just for herself but also for every woman who has ever been sexually abused. She is pursuing her intention to ensure that “shame changes sides”. Join the Irish Independent WhatsApp channel Stay up to date with all the latest news.