This article was published on 17 July 2024 and updated on 14 January 2025.
A final report has been published as part of an investigation into serious acts committed by the founder of the Emmaus international movement, Abbé Pierre, who died in 2007.
The report includes the testimonies of survivors who experienced sexual violence by Abbé Pierre between the 1950s and 2000s.
Emmaus International have confirmed that an independent commission will begin its investigation into what was known and what enabled Abbé Pierre’s behaviour. This is due to begin in February and run for two years, led by a team of specialist independent researchers in France.
A new system of reporting and support for survivors of the abuse committed by Abbé Pierre is also being established.
Response from Emmaus UK
As an independent member of the international Emmaus movement, and representative body for all 30+ Emmaus communities and groups in the UK, Emmaus UK reiterates its condemnation and shock at Abbé Pierre’s behaviour.
We are deeply saddened by the distressing accounts contained in the published reports and stand with the survivors who have courageously spoken out.
We believe them and remain determined to support the work of the international Emmaus movement to establish learning.
As far as we are aware, none of the incidents took place in the UK.
Charlotte Talbott, Chief Executive at Emmaus UK, said:
“We are shocked by these revelations and by the grave and repetitive nature of the acts committed by the founder of the Emmaus Movement.
“We stand by the survivors unreservedly and commend them for bravely bringing their testimonies to light. We share their hurt and anger and we determinedly continue our work to build a fairer and more supportive world.
“While nothing can be done to right the wrongs of the intolerable abuse and its impact on the survivors, we remain committed to combatting abuse and to supporting our colleagues internationally as work focuses on establishing learning.”
Further information and support
- For more information about the investigation into Abbé Pierre, visit the Emmaus International website.
- For anyone in need of support relating to the investigation, please contact: Groupe Egaé by email at [email protected] or phone +33 1 89 96 01 53. Testimonies will continue to be strictly anonymous and confidential.
- For anyone who has been impacted by the testimonies in the report and issues they raise please note Victim Support provides free, independent and confidential advice: www.victimsupport.org.uk or call on 08 08 16 89 111