The trial of the Mazan rapes in Avignon has drawn international attention, highlighting issues of toxic masculinity and societal complicity.

Dominique Pelicot, accused of drugging and allowing his wife, Gisèle Pelicot, to be raped by numerous men over a decade, stands trial alongside 50 other defendants.

The case has sparked outrage, particularly after comments by Mazan's mayor, Louis Bonnet, who downplayed the severity of the crimes, suggesting the situation could have been worse since no one died.

His remarks have been widely criticized as perpetuating rape culture.

The trial challenges the perception of the accused as ordinary men, questioning societal norms and the normalization of such violence.

As the trial progresses, it continues to provoke discussions on the broader implications of masculinity and accountability.