Misleading Claims Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying targeting her mother.
Consequences on Daily Life
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, including her attire to her posture, due to the concern that every photograph might be manipulated to support negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in her daily life," Auzière told the court.
Those on Trial and Charges
Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while others were better known.
All is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. Among them, this included comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person does not talk the issue to her."
Auzière highlighted the impact on her relatives, including the kids hearing false assertions like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She does not know what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently facing this abuse."
Court Case Background
This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is a man.
The Macrons have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is in fact her brother.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, several defendants denied the charges.
- One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his social media content as satirical.
- A fiction writer claimed that his online activity were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
- An art gallery owner explained he shared content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".
Past Context
The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated partly because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.
She, aged two decades older than her husband, originally knew him when she was a instructor at his school.
Their bond developed through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, subsequent to her separation.
She wrapped up her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.