Gisèle Pelicot appeared at the Hay Festival to discuss her memoir, A Hymn to Life, in a public conversation hosted by Baroness Helena Kennedy. During the on-stage interview, Pelicot reflected on questions surrounding the future for women, saying she remained calm and hopeful about what lies ahead. She expressed confidence that men and women can live together in harmony and said the key to that future is educating children from a very young age.
Pelicot described herself as naturally optimistic and said she would hope humanity moves toward peace and love. Her remarks framed the discussion around resilience, coexistence and the importance of early education in shaping attitudes and relationships.
She also used the appearance to highlight the work of her daughter, Caroline Darian, and praised her advocacy group M’endors pas. The organization campaigns against drug-facilitated sexual assault and offers support to victims of chemical submission. Pelicot credited Darian for her commitment to the cause and the effort she has made to bring attention to these issues.
As the event drew a standing ovation, Pelicot called her daughter to join her on stage. Addressing the audience, she said she was very happy to share the moment with Caroline and spoke of how hard her daughter had fought. Pelicot said she was proud to be her mother, underscoring the personal significance of the occasion.
The appearance placed Pelicot’s memoir and public voice at the center of a broader conversation about sexual violence, victim support and the role of advocacy in driving social change. Her comments combined messages of hope, family solidarity and public awareness, while her praise for Caroline Darian drew attention to ongoing efforts to support survivors and challenge drug-facilitated abuse.
At the Hay Festival, the exchange between Pelicot, Kennedy and the audience was marked by emotion and applause, with the moment between mother and daughter standing out as a focal point. Pelicot’s remarks presented a message of endurance and optimism, alongside a clear call for education, compassion and collective responsibility in confronting abuse.
