Gisèle Pelicot's name has become synonymous with a horrific crime and the courageous act of a woman who shed her anonymity to empower other victims of rape. Her book is significant for all, shedding light on a critical issue that affects many. In Germany, nearly eighteen percent of women have experienced sexual violence, yet only a small fraction report it to the authorities, primarily due to the shame that silences them. Pelicot's assertion that "shame must change sides" serves as a serious legal and moral call to action.

The new dark field study commissioned by the German government reveals not only the extent of sexual violence but also its underlying causes. Shame emerges as a powerful force that prevents victims from seeking help, often leading them to carry the burden alone. Pelicot's phrase is not just an empty slogan but reflects a deeper mechanism in society where responsibility is often deflected into anonymity. This facelessness serves as a protective veil, but it can also perpetuate harm when victims cannot come forward due to fear or stigmatization.

The article argues for a cultural transformation where victims of sexual violence are encouraged to speak out rather than hide in silence. It underscores the need to confront shame, shifting the burden of responsibility away from the victims and directing it towards a society that needs to take accountability for such acts. By bringing these issues into public discourse, Pelicot's story and advocacy aim to empower other women and instigate change in perception and action surrounding sexual violence in Germany and beyond.