The sensational trial of 50 men accused of raping an unwitting and unconscious French woman who was repeatedly drugged by her husband has exposed what critics say is a dark rape culture in the country.

France may introduce changes to its rape law to include consent for the first time, after a mass rape trial shook the country, challenging the limits of existing legislation and prompting some leading politicians to call for change.

A harrowing and unprecedented trial in France is exposing how pornography, chatrooms and men’s disdain for or hazy understanding of consent is fueling rape culture.

Gisèle Pelicot takes the stand in the trial in which her ex-husband is accused of drugging her and inviting dozens of men to rape her.

Grandmother Gisele Pelicot takes the stand in mass rape trial of her ex-husband in France with a message to other rape survivors.

Woman at the centre of horrifying mass rape trial that has shaken France is due to address the court. Gisèle Pelicot is expected to take the stand at about 11am local time. Through her lawyer, she commented on the testimony of the wife of one of the accused men this morning.

Madame Pelicot did it, I can too. I don't want them to be ashamed any longer," she said, referring to her request for an open trial and for the videos of the alleged rapes to be shown. Gisèle, 72, was taking the stand following a request from her legal team that she be given the chance to respond to the evidence and testimony that have been shared so far at the trial.

Gisèle Pelicot, the 72-year-old victim of mass rape whose case has shocked the world, told a trial in southern France on Wednesday that in making her case public, she was determined to help other women and change society.