The trial of Gisèle Pelicot has become a landmark case in France, challenging the country's approach to sexual violence and consent. Pelicot's ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, drugged her over a decade, allowing dozens of men to rape her while she was unconscious. The trial, which includes 51 defendants, has exposed shocking details of abuse and highlighted the inadequacies of French rape laws. Many of the accused have denied their actions constituted rape, citing a lack of explicit consent laws. The trial has sparked protests and calls for legal reforms, with activists demanding that consent be explicitly included in French law [1].

Gisèle Pelicot's decision to waive her anonymity and open the trial to the public has garnered widespread support and protests across France. Her courage has made her a symbol of resistance against sexual violence and has inspired many women to speak out about their own experiences. Activists have organized demonstrations in support of Pelicot, demanding justice and changes in the legal system. The trial has also sparked a cultural shift, with many calling for a reevaluation of societal attitudes towards consent and the treatment of sexual violence victims [2].

The Pelicot case has highlighted the need for significant legal reforms in France, particularly regarding consent in rape cases. Many activists argue that the current legal framework is insufficient and does not adequately protect victims of sexual violence. The trial has also exposed the challenges victims face in reporting assaults and navigating the justice system. Calls for change have intensified, with demands for clearer consent laws and improved support for victims. The case has become a catalyst for a broader movement to address sexism and violence against women in France [3].