François Bayrou’s daughter testifies to violence suffered during a Betharram congregation camp

In a shocking revelation, Hélène Perlant, the daughter of former minister François Bayrou, opens up about the physical violence she suffered during her adolescence. During a summer camp organized by the Bétharram congregation, she describes an educational environment that resembled a cult, marked by violence and enforced silence. This testimony is of paramount importance, not only for its content, but also for the resonance it has in the debate on education and youth protection, while highlighting the lack of support she suffered, even within her own family. A poignant account of violence in Bétharram In an interview with Paris Match, Hélène Perlant, now 53, reveals that as a 14-year-old teenager, she was the victim of physical violence that left a lasting mark on her. She recounts a tragic incident during a vigil, where a counselor, Father Lartiguet, brutally assaulted her. This story highlights the culture of fear that reigned in this institution. Discover the poignant testimony of François Bayrou’s daughter, who describes the violence she experienced during a Betharram congregation camp. A revealing account that sheds light on often hidden realities.The Story of the Assault Hélène’s detailed account is chilling. She describes a climate where silence was golden: “He grabbed me by the hair and dragged me to the ground.” “He beat me, especially in the stomach.” “After the incident, I lay prostrate in my sleeping bag.”

These sentences illustrate the brutality of her experience and the profound fear that accompanied it. But even more, it raises questions about the obligation to remain silent that weighed on her.

A denunciation of a toxic educational system In her lyrics, Hélène Perlant goes further, describing the Bétharram facility as “organized like a sect or a totalitarian regime.” She questions the responsibility of the authorities, particularly that of her father, François Bayrou, who, according to her, was unaware of the situation. The dynamic of parental support failed to play its protective role, leaving the victims in the shadow of shame and denial.Discover the poignant testimony of François Bayrou’s daughter, who describes the violence she suffered at a Bétharram congregation camp. A heartbreaking account that sheds light on little-known abuses within religious organizations.

She managed to keep her story secret for over thirty years, recalling how, to protect her father from the “political blows” he suffered, she never shared her experience. This reality prompts us to reflect on the ways survivors can express themselves:

Let’s unite to break the silence.

• Raise awareness among young people about abuse.
• Create support spaces for victims.
• Changing attitudes and the quest for justice

François Bayrou, who is scheduled to appear before the parliamentary commission of inquiry into the Bétharram affair on May 14, remains under fire. Hélène also suggests that “the more politically entangled we are, the less we see and understand.” Her voice echoes that of many other former students, revealing a truly failed support and protection system. Key Events

Year

Assault incident at summer camp 1980 Public testimony of Hélène Perlant

Hearing of François Bayrou

2025 The repercussions of these revelations are inevitable in the public sphere, prompting serious reflection on education within religious communities and the protection of children. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZQe6d5wcPQ

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