Queen Camilla Left ‘Speechless’ by French Survivor’s Courage
Queen Camilla has met with French survivor and activist Gisèle Pelicot at Clarence House, in a meeting that has captured international attention. The Queen told Pelicot that her memoir, which she read in just two days, left her “speechless,” a striking admission from one of the world’s most experienced public figures.
Pelicot, now 73, rose to global prominence after exposing a shocking case of systematic abuse orchestrated by her former husband, Dominique Pelicot. Over a decade, he secretly drugged her and facilitated assaults by dozens of men. The case culminated in a high-profile public trial in 2024, where 46 men were convicted of rape, two of attempted rape and two of sexual assault. Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year prison sentence. The trial not only brought justice but also shone a light on the often-overlooked crime of chemical submission.
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In her memoir, Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides , Pelicot recounts her harrowing experience with courage and clarity, insisting on publicizing her story despite the immense personal cost. She has described the letters she received from survivors around the world as a source of “incredible strength,” highlighting the global resonance of her fight against sexual violence. The Queen, who has met countless survivors over her years of service, said she was genuinely shocked by Pelicot’s story, underscoring its exceptional impact.
Their conversation, conducted mostly through an interpreter, combined moments of solemnity and humanity. Pelicot attended the tea with her partner, Jean-Loup Agopian and her legal and literary teams. The meeting follows a sold-out book launch in London, featuring readings by prominent actresses, signaling the international attention her story continues to draw.
Pelicot’s journey is not only one of survival but of redefining how society perceives shame and power. She emphasizes that “shame has to change sides,” transferring the burden from victims to perpetrators. Beyond recounting trauma, her memoir explores hope, resilience and the possibility of rebuilding a fulfilling life, which she demonstrates in her relationship with Agopian. She stresses that love and joy can exist even after profound betrayal and loss.
This meeting is significant not only as a personal recognition from the Queen but also as a global statement about the importance of confronting sexual violence, acknowledging survivors and demanding justice. Pelicot’s decision to waive anonymity has inspired discussions on legal transparency and the treatment of survivors worldwide.
For audiences following this story, it is a reminder of the power of courage and the role of public advocacy in changing societal norms. Keep following developments on Pelicot’s international book tour and watch closely as her story continues to influence conversations around justice, survivor rights and the culture of accountability.
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