Final phase for mass rape trial that has horrified France
16 November 2024

Laura Gozzi
BBC News


Gisèle Pelicot, 71, has become a symbol of feminism to many in France

After 10 weeks, the mass rape trial that has shocked France is moving on to the final phase of closing statements. ... The case focuses on a formerly married couple, Dominique and Gisèle Pelicot, pensioners who are now in their early 70s.

Ms Pelicot's legal team will give their final statements on Tuesday, and the defence will then follow, ahead of a verdict from a panel of five judges expected on 20 December. ... Dominique Pelicot went on trial with 50 other men in the southern city of Avignon in September.

Every chapter of this case has played out in the full glare of publicity because Ms Pelicot has waived her anonymity, making the whole trial open to the media and the public.

In France, it has become known as the Affaire Mazan, after the village near Avignon where the Pelicots lived.

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