Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.
She, a attorney, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment targeting the first lady.
Effects on Daily Life
Auzière testified that the first lady now is always concerned about her demeanor, such as her attire to how she stands, as a result of the concern that any image could be misused to advance malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, irrespective of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière testified.
Those on Trial and Accusations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were better known.
Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to comparing the age gap with the French president to offensive labels.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière emphasized the effects on her relatives, such as the kids being exposed to malicious statements like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She does not know what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the false claim that Brigitte Macron was a man.
They have also filed a US lawsuit over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is completely false and notes that the person cited is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the allegations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as humorous.
- Another defendant stated that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant explained he disseminated content since he thought it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
The first lady, who is two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when serving as a instructor at his school.
Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.
Auzière finished her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.