• Husamettin Dogan's prison sentence increased to 10 years for raping Gisèle Pelicot.
• Pelicot's case has sparked widespread calls for reform in how France addresses sexual violence.
• Prosecutors emphasized the need for a cultural shift towards consent in sexual matters.
• Dogan was the only one among 51 defendants to appeal his conviction.
• Pelicot remains a prominent figure advocating for victims of sexual violence.

A French appeals court has increased the prison sentence of Husamettin Dogan from nine to 10 years for the aggravated rape of Gisèle Pelicot, emphasizing that the actions taken were without her consent, as the victim was drugged and unconscious. This high-profile case has captured global attention due to the shocking circumstances involved, including the actions of Pelicot's ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who admitted to drugging her and inviting men to abuse her over several years, according to Le Monde and Reuters.

The verdict was pronounced following a retrial in Nîmes, where Pelicot returned to confront Dogan. Prosecutor Dominique Sié sought a 12-year sentence, arguing that Dogan's failure to take responsibility for his actions perpetuates a "sordid social system," demanding a cultural evolution away from rape norms towards consensus on consent, as highlighted by multiple sources including Le Monde and South China Morning Post.

Evidence presented in court included disturbing video footage recorded by Dominique Pelicot, depicting Dogan sexually assaulting his victim. Testimony indicated that Dogan spent "at least three hours and 24 minutes" at the couple's house and was aware of Pelicot's unconscious state. Despite his claims of being "trapped" and that he thought he was engaging in a consensual encounter, the court determined otherwise, according to BBC and Los Angeles Times.

Gisèle Pelicot, now a symbol against sexual violence as she waived her anonymity during the trial, highlighted that "victims should never be ashamed of what was forced upon them." Her courage has inspired significant discussions about sexual abuse in France and has led to legislative efforts aimed at reforming laws regarding sexual consent and violence, as reported by Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.