Gisèle Pelicot, the woman at the center of France’s most harrowing and widely covered gang rape trial, returns to court this week to confront one of the 51 men convicted of repeatedly raping her. This man is the only one appealing the verdict from last year’s landmark case.

Drugged and assaulted in her own home by dozens of men, with her husband’s complicity, Pelicot’s story sent shockwaves through France and beyond. Her courage in publicly confronting her attackers made headlines, especially her powerful declaration: “Shame should change sides.”

However, nearly a year later, optimism that her case would serve as a turning point in France’s handling of sexual violence has largely faded.

In Mazan, the small town where the abuse took place, responses remain divided. Some residents bristle at the attention, seeing the case as a blemish on the town’s image. Even the town’s mayor has downplayed the events, labeling it a “private matter” and previously stating, “no-one was killed,” as if to minimize the trauma.

Others, particularly women in Mazan, feel the case has sparked vital conversations. Aurélie, a local civil servant, noted, “No one talks about it anymore, even here. But women are still hiding their abuse.” Another resident, Aurore Baralier, 68, expressed hope: “Yes, France is evolving. Pelicot’s case helped women speak more freely.”

Nationally, activists and feminist groups credit Pelicot’s bravery with amplifying the effects of the MeToo movement in France. Alyssa Ahrabare, who leads a coalition of 50 feminist organizations, said the case contributed to a historic mobilization against sexual violence and impunity.

Still, the French state has made few concrete changes to its judicial response. While rape complaints have tripled in recent years, signaling a rise in awareness and willingness to speak out, activists say much more must be done in terms of victim support, professional training, and systemic reform.

As Gisèle Pelicot prepares to face one of her rapists again, her case continues to reflect both the progress made — and the long road still ahead — in confronting sexual violence in France.