Introduction
In a momentous recognition of extraordinary bravery and advocacy, Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old survivor and activist, has been named a knight of the Legion of Honour—France’s most prestigious national award. This accolade, announced on the eve of Bastille Day, not only celebrates Pelicot’s personal resilience but also marks a significant milestone in France’s ongoing struggle against sexual violence and for women’s rights.
The Legion of Honour: France’s Highest Distinction
Established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte, the Legion of Honour (Légion d’honneur) is the highest order of merit in France, recognizing outstanding military and civilian service to the nation. The order is divided into five classes, with “knight” (chevalier) being the entry rank. Recipients are selected for their exceptional contributions to French society and its ideals, and the honor is conferred by the president of France, currently Emmanuel Macron.
Gisèle Pelicot’s Story: From Survivor to Symbol
Gisèle Pelicot’s journey to national and international recognition is rooted in her harrowing experience and her courageous decision to speak out. For nearly a decade, Pelicot was drugged and repeatedly raped by her then-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who also orchestrated assaults by dozens of strangers. The abuse came to light during a highly publicized trial in 2024, where Pelicot made the bold choice to waive her legal right to anonymity.
The Trial That Changed France
Open Court Proceedings: Pelicot insisted that her trial be held openly, declaring that “shame must change sides”—a powerful message that resonated across France and beyond. She wanted the perpetrators, not the victims, to bear the burden of shame associated with sexual violence.
Legal and Social Impact: The trial resulted in the conviction of Dominique Pelicot, who received a 20-year prison sentence, and 50 other men who were found guilty of participating in the assaults. The case forced a national reckoning with the realities of sexual violence and led to significant revisions in France’s rape laws.
Global Attention: Pelicot’s testimony and advocacy captured the world’s attention. She was named one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People of 2025” and became a finalist for the Council of Europe’s Vigdis Prize. Her story inspired petitions for her nomination to the Nobel Peace Prize and drew support from international women’s rights organizations.
A Symbol of Feminist Resistance
Gisèle Pelicot’s decision to forgo anonymity and confront her attackers in open court transform her into a global feminist icon. Her actions challenged the stigma surrounding sexual violence survivors and shifted public discourse toward holding perpetrators accountable. French President Emmanuel Macron lauded her “dignity and bravery,” emphasizing the profound impact of her example on France and the world.
Aftermath and Continuing Legacy
Since the conclusion of the trial, Pelicot has largely retreated from public life, focusing on writing a memoir titled A Hymn to Life, set for publication in 2026. Her lawyer has indicated that the book will provide a detailed account of her experiences and her fight for justice.
Other Honors: In addition to the Legion of Honour, Pelicot was awarded the 2025 Freedom Prize (Prix Liberté), chosen by 10,000 young people from 84 countries, recognizing her fight against the normalization of rape and sexual violence.
Inspiring Change: Pelicot’s case has prompted new conversations about consent, victim support, and legal reforms in France. Her insistence on transparency and justice has empowered countless survivors to come forward and demand change.
Conclusion
Gisèle Pelicot’s knighthood in the Legion of Honour is more than a personal accolade—it is a testament to the transformative power of courage and the enduring fight for justice. By turning her pain into a catalyst for societal change, Pelicot has not only rewritten her own narrative but also helped reshape France’s approach to sexual violence and women’s rights. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations, reminding the world that dignity, resilience, and the pursuit of justice can indeed change history.