False Claims on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—such as the unfounded rumor that she had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals accused of internet-based abuse targeting her mother.
Effects on Personal Routine
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, including her attire to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot could be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Defendants and Accusations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
Each one is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included comparing her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a daughter from her mother's initial union, stated how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when someone does not talk this to her."
She highlighted the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually facing these assaults."
Court Case History
The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly a man.
They have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a media personality who spread the claim.
The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is actually her brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals disputed the allegations.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
- Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
- Another individual said he shared content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim about the first lady's identity spread to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest in digital spaces.
The first lady, aged significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when working as a teacher at his secondary school.
The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following her separation.
She finished her statement by saying that the false claims have produced a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.