In a significant decision, a French judge has allowed the public and media to view video footage in a high-profile rape trial in Avignon. The case involves Gisèle Pelicot, a 71-year-old woman allegedly drugged and raped by her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, and 49 other men over ten years. This trial has drawn national attention, sparking debates on sexual violence and justice in France.

Judge Roger Arata reversed his earlier ruling after a two-week legal battle. Initially, he had ruled that the recordings would be shown behind closed doors to protect courtroom “dignity.” However, Pelicot’s lawyers and journalists argued that the public needed to see the footage to understand the gravity of the case. Under this pressure, the court changed its decision.

The videos, filmed by Dominique Pelicot, show men sexually assaulting Gisèle while she lay unconscious. Most of the defendants deny the charges. Some claim they believed the encounters were consensual, while others say Dominique coerced them. Pelicot insists that these videos must be made public for the truth to come out.

Gisèle Pelicot has become a symbol in the fight against sexual violence. Her lawyer, Stéphane Babonneau, emphasized the importance of showing the videos. He stated, “No one can leave this trial saying, ‘I didn’t know this was rape.’” Babonneau believes this case should serve as a warning to society.

With the trial still in progress, these videos will shape the public’s understanding of the crimes. Their impact could influence the final verdict, making this one of France’s most extraordinary trials on sexual violence.