After 16 weeks, the Pelicot trial has come to an end. Yesterday morning’s session was shorter than many anticipated, as court president Roger Arata swiftly delivered the guilty verdicts for the 51 defendants and outlined their individual sentences.
Before midday, this high-profile trial, which has captivated audiences in France and beyond, reached its conclusion. Gisèle Pelicot, once an anonymous retired French grandmother, entered the Avignon tribunal with little fanfare. However, as she exited the courthouse for the last time today, she emerged as a feminist icon.
Over a hundred journalists documented her every move as she placed her hand on her heart and smiled, expressing silent gratitude to the supporters who chanted her name. As her car departed, many in the crowd wiped away tears, their appreciation for this remarkable woman evident. Gisèle Pelicot will be remembered for her extraordinary impact for years to come.
