Queen tells Gisèle Pelicot her new memoir left her 'speechless'
BBC World
February 23, 2026
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Queen Camilla praised Gisèle Pelicot’s memoir *Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides* during their meeting at Clarence House in London, calling it shocking and leaving her “speechless.” The Queen invited Pelicot for tea after reading the book in just two days. Pelicot, a French survivor of rape and sexual abuse who waived her right to anonymity, has become a global advocate for survivors. Her memoir details her harrowing experience at the hands of her then-husband Dominique, who orchestrated her rapes by drugging her unconscious and recruiting others. After a lengthy trial, 46 men were convicted, including Dominique, who received a 20-year sentence.
During their meeting, Queen Camilla commended Pelicot’s courage and strength, acknowledging how her story had moved her deeply. The two women conversed through an interpreter, with the Queen humorously noting she had “forgotten” French after studying it decades ago. Pelicot shared how public support had empowered her to keep going, a sentiment echoed by the Queen, who praised her decision to make “shame swap sides” from victim to perpetrator.
The meeting follows Pelicot’s book launch in London, where Hollywood actresses like Kate Winslet and Kristin Scott Thomas read excerpts. Last year, Queen Camilla also sent Pelicot a heartfelt letter praising her dignity and courage, which now hangs framed in her office. Pelicot’s memoir has sparked global conversations about rape culture, justice, and the resilience of survivors. Her story highlights the growing shift toward holding perpetrators accountable and empowering victims to speak out, making her a symbol of strength for countless women worldwide.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026