Queen Camilla conveyed that Gisèle Pelicot’s new memoir left her “speechless,” a sentiment she shared after reading the book in just two days.
Pelicot, a survivor of sexual assault, was invited to Camilla’s official London residence. The 73-year-old French woman had been in the city promoting her latest book, titled “Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides.”
Gisèle Pelicot emerged as a prominent global advocate for strength and feminism. This status was achieved when she chose to forgo her right to anonymity, ultimately confronting numerous men who had committed acts of rape against her.
“I have encountered a great many survivors of rape and sexual abuse,” the Queen stated to Pelicot on Monday. “I had not anticipated that anything could still shock me, but your case did. It truly left me speechless.”
The meeting took place over tea at Clarence House. Pelicot attended with her partner, Jean-Loup Agopian, along with her literary and legal representatives.
Queen Camilla initiated the conversation in French, playfully remarking that she had “forgotten” the language after her studies concluded approximately 60 years prior. Subsequently, the conversation proceeded with the aid of an interpreter.
Pelicot shared that she had experienced “incredible strength” from public support following her decision to speak out about her ordeal. In response, the Queen commented, “You have so much support.”
This encounter followed Pelicot’s book launch event on Friday. The event, held at London’s Royal Festival Hall, was sold out and featured readings by prominent actresses, including Kate Winslet, Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, and Juliet Stevenson.
Last year, Queen Camilla had previously penned a letter to Pelicot, commending her “extraordinary dignity and courage.”
In that correspondence, the Queen indicated that Pelicot had “inspired women across the globe” and had “created a powerful legacy that will change the narrative around shame, forever.” Pelicot recounted that this letter, which left her “overwhelmed,” is now a framed item in her office.
The harrowing specifics of Pelicot’s experience came to light in 2024, shocking many worldwide.
Court proceedings revealed a situation where, over many years, she had been drugged into unconsciousness by her then-husband, Dominique. He subsequently recruited dozens of men online to commit rape against her.
A trial lasting 16 weeks concluded with 46 men being found guilty of rape. Two individuals were convicted of attempted rape, and two others of sexual assault. Dominique Pelicot received the maximum possible prison sentence of 20 years.
Gisèle Pelicot’s presence during the trial resonated deeply with millions. She received substantial public support, both within France and internationally.
She articulated a desire for “shame to swap sides,” moving from the victim to the perpetrator. This message found significant resonance, particularly with groups of women who gathered daily outside the court, holding signs that called for justice.
Earlier in February, Pelicot participated in an extensive interview with BBC Newsnight. During this conversation, she described feeling “crushed by horror” upon discovering the full extent of her husband’s criminal actions.
She also recounted the pivotal moment when she made the decision to relinquish her legal right to anonymity, a choice she has affirmed she has never regretted.