Pelicot tells abuse survivors they will never be alone’

Gisele Pelicot has told sexual violence survivors they will never be alone” in a powerful message marking International Women’s Day.

- TARA COBHAM

The extraordinary French grandmother dedicated being chosen as The Independent’s most influential woman of 2025 to survivors who are the true heroes”, in moving personal words shared by her lawyer.

Stephane Babonneau said his client – a global hero and worldwide symbol in the struggle against sexual violence – was emotional and humbled when she found out she had been named as No 1 on the list. She later told him she was “honoured” and passed on her gratitude. Ms Pelicot, 72, highlighted the victims who are still battling for justice – especially those who are doing so alone and “in the dark” – whom she said she deeply admires.

Her personal message for