Globally recognized for her bravery during the trial, Pelicot’s efforts have led to significant changes in France’s rape legislation.
Gisele Pelicot, celebrated worldwide for her courageous testimony against her husband and multiple men involved in her rape, has been honored with France’s highest civic distinction.
The 72-year-old was named a knight of the Legion of Honour in a ceremony held ahead of France’s national day on July 14, 2025, as reported by AFP.
Pelicot was one of 589 individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions to national service.
Refusing to stay silent, she publicly recounted her traumatic experience in a 2024 trial against her former spouse, Dominique Pelicot, who systematically drugged her and arranged for her to be raped by numerous men over a decade.
While his accomplices attempted to shift blame onto Dominique, claiming ignorance of the non-consensual nature of the assaults, Pelicot labeled the proceedings a “trial of cowardice,” firmly asserting that there is no justification for the abuse she endured while incapacitated. Her powerful testimony resonated globally, leading to convictions for Dominique Pelicot and 50 co-defendants involved in the mass-rape case.
Her fearless decision to come forward has not only spurred a reevaluation of France’s rape laws but also positioned her among the world’s most influential individuals in various global lists.
Since the trial, Gisele Pelicot has remained relatively quiet, choosing to focus on authoring a book set for release in 2026, which will recount her experiences, according to her legal representative.
The Legion of Honour list also features notable personalities such as singer and producer Pharrell Williams, author Marc Levy, actress Lea Drucker, singer Sylvie Vartan, and Holocaust survivor and educator Yvette Levy.