France Mass Rape Trial: Pelicot Attends Court as Convicted Rapist Dogan Appeals

Establishment-critical narrative

The Pelicot appeal exposes a grim reality in France: even ordinary men — fathers, husbands and professionals — commit horrific sexual violence and justify it with pathetic excuses, reflecting how deeply rape culture permeates society. Despite Pelicot’s global courage and the MeToo surge, victims still face systemic neglect, flat conviction rates and weak institutional responses. Her bravery highlights the gap between public outrage and real change, showing that symbolic trials alone cannot end impunity.