Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims online—including the baseless theory that she is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.
She, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of ten people accused of online harassment against her mother.
Consequences on Personal Routine
She testified that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the concern that every photograph could be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.
"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," she told the court.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were more visible.
Every defendant is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to linking the age gap with the French president to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, a family member from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".
She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when someone fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She was born male".
"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."
Legal Battle Context
The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that she was a man.
The Macrons have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation against a media personality who promoted the claim.
The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, a few individuals rejected the charges.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
- Another defendant argued that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "free speech".
- An art gallery owner testified he posted information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Past Context
The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion on the internet.
The first lady, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.
She wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have created a "storm that never stops" for her mother.