Gisèle Pelicot

Gisèle Pelicot is a French woman who was drugged and raped by at least 72 men, orchestrated by her husband who filmed the assaults. After years of silence, she has become a public figure, advocating for survivors of sexual abuse. She is newsworthy due to the recent release of her memoir, "Et la joie de vivre" (And the Joy of Living), which details her experiences and her journey to healing. The book has been a bestseller, translated into 22 languages, and has resonated deeply with readers worldwide. Pelicot has been giving interviews, attending literary festivals like Hay Festival 2026, and meeting with figures like Queen Camilla, who expressed shock at her ordeal. Her story is significant as it sheds light on the horrors of sexual violence and offers a message of hope and resilience to other survivors, turning her personal trauma into a platform for advocacy and change.