Gisèle Pelicot felt overwhelmed and honoured by letter from Queen Camilla
BBC World
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Gisèle Pelicot, a survivor of domestic and sexual violence, expressed feelings of overwhelm and honor upon receiving a personal letter of support from Queen Camilla. The Queen praised Pelicot for her "courage, grace, and dignity" in facing the horrific crimes committed against her, which included nearly a decade of being drugged and raped by her then-husband and his accomplices. In her letter, the Queen highlighted how Pelicot’s actions had inspired women worldwide and created a powerful legacy that challenges the narrative around shame.
Pelicot gained global attention when she waived her right to anonymity during her 2024 trial, shifting the focus of shame from the victim to the perpetrator. This bold move made her a symbol of strength and feminism. During her 15-week trial in Avignon, supporters gathered outside the courthouse daily, holding signs that thanked her for her courage and called for justice. The Queen’s letter, which had never been revealed until now, was shared with the BBC during Pelicot’s interview with Newsnight ahead of the release of her memoir, *A Hymn To Life*.
The significance of this recognition lies in its amplification of survivor voices and the ongoing fight against domestic and sexual violence. Queen Camilla, a long-standing advocate for survivors, acknowledged the profound impact Pelicot has had on reshaping societal attitudes toward shame and justice. This moment not only elevates Pelicot’s story but also underscores the importance of supporting survivors and challenging systemic inequalities. As Pelicot herself noted, she was surprised by the letter and deeply moved, calling it an honor that the Queen took notice of her efforts.
Pelicot’s memoir, *A Hymn
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/14/2026