Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Court
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
She explained that the first lady now worries constantly about how she looks, from her attire to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph may be manipulated to support hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her actions in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for online harassment. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.
All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this involved comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".
She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual does not talk the issue to her."
She pointed out the impact on the family, for example the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She has no idea what to do about it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently facing this abuse."
Legal Battle Background
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron is supposedly male.
They have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation against a media personality who spread the allegation.
The case asserts that the accusation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, some of the accused rejected the accusations.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
- Another defendant stated that his posts were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the trial could threaten "free speech".
- Another individual testified he posted content because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's identity gained traction partly because their union has frequently been a point of interest on the internet.
She, who is two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his secondary school.
Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to her divorce.
She finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.