Gisèle Pelicot has described feeling “deeply moved” and “truly honoured” after receiving a personal letter from Queen Camilla, praising her strength in the aftermath of years of abuse.
In her message, the Queen commended Ms Pelicot for the “courage, grace and dignity” with which she confronted the crimes committed against her. She wrote that she wished to express her “heartfelt admiration” for the way Ms Pelicot had faced such traumatic experiences.
For nearly ten years, Ms Pelicot was repeatedly drugged and raped by her then-husband. During that period, he also arranged for other men he had met online to sexually assault her.
In the letter, the Queen said Ms Pelicot had “inspired women across the globe” and created a legacy that would permanently shift perceptions of shame, placing responsibility where it belongs — on perpetrators rather than victims.
During the 2024 trial in Avignon, Ms Pelicot made the rare decision to waive her right to anonymity. She said she wanted the “shame to change sides”, moving away from victims and onto those responsible for sexual violence.
The 15-week proceedings drew widespread public attention. Supporters gathered daily outside the courthouse, holding signs expressing solidarity and calling for justice.
Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Ms Pelicot, 73, said she had not anticipated the Queen’s gesture.
“It was an honour for me to receive this letter. I wasn’t expecting it at all,” she said. “I was overwhelmed that the Queen could send me this letter.”
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