False Assertions on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—among them the groundless claim that the French first lady is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady.
Consequences on Daily Life
Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to how she stands, due to the fear that every photograph might be distorted to advance negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière testified.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were more visible.
Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
She, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."
Auzière emphasized the impact on the family, such as the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She does not know what to do about it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."
Legal Battle Context
This case represents a recent development in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that she is supposedly male.
The couple have pursued a case in America over false statements involving a political commentator who promoted the claim.
The legal filing asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is actually her brother.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the allegations.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as humorous.
- Another defendant argued that his social media shares were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant testified he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because their union has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, being two decades older than her husband, originally knew the future president when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.
Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.
She wrapped up her account by saying that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.