Queen Camilla has shown her support for Gisele Pelicot, a French woman who survived horrific abuse at the hands of her ex-husband. The Queen wrote a private letter to Pelicot, expressing her admiration for the courage and dignity Pelicot displayed during a highly publicized trial. This letter was revealed by a royal aide, who noted that the Queen was deeply moved by Pelicot’s case.
For nearly a decade, Pelicot was drugged and raped by her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who also invited others to join in the abuse. The ordeal was so severe that it led to a mass trial, where 51 men faced charges for their involvement. Dominique Pelicot confessed to his crimes and received a 20-year prison sentence.
The details of the Queen’s letter remain private, but her aide mentioned that she commended Pelicot for standing up and refusing to be ashamed of her victimization. The Queen’s long-standing commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse made her feel compelled to reach out to Pelicot.
The trial shocked France and drew international attention. During the proceedings, Pelicot insisted that the court show explicit videos of the rapes to reveal the truth of her suffering. She waived her right to anonymity, stating that it was the perpetrators who should feel shame, not the victims. Her bravery inspired many, leading to demonstrations in solidarity with her and other survivors.
After the trial, Pelicot expressed her desire to advocate for future generations, saying she wanted to fight for her children and grandchildren. The sentences handed down to the convicted men totaled over 400 years, highlighting the severity of their crimes.
Pelicot’s story has sparked a broader conversation about sexual violence and the importance of supporting survivors. The Queen’s letter adds a significant voice to this ongoing dialogue, emphasizing the need for societal change and support for those who have suffered similar fates.