Inaccurate Allegations Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—among them the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Daily Life
Auzière stated that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that every photograph might be misused to support hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.
Defendants and Accusations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were more prominent.
Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have caused a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing the issue to her."
She highlighted the impact on her relatives, for example her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for public attention, and she is permanently facing this abuse."
Court Case History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that she is transgender.
They have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a media personality who amplified the claim.
The case states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is in fact her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals denied the charges.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his online statements as ironic.
- Another defendant argued that his posts were intended as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "freedom of expression".
- A third defendant explained he shared posts since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's sex spread partly because their union has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.
She, who is two decades older than her husband, initially encountered him when working as a educator at the institution he attended.
Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they married in the following year, after her marriage dissolution.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have created a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.