Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Informs Court
The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the trial of ten people facing charges for internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.
Consequences on Personal Routine
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the fear that every photograph could be distorted to fuel malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Defendants and Allegations
Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.
All is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved linking the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
If convicted, they face as much as 24 months in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, a family member from her mother's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She explained, "Not a day passes when an individual does not talk this to her."
She highlighted the repercussions on loved ones, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently facing these attacks."
Court Case Background
The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.
The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a media personality who spread the theory.
The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the accusations.
- A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
- A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and voiced worry that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
- An art gallery owner explained he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Past Context
The false theory about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because their marriage has frequently been a topic of comment online.
She, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when she was a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following her separation.
Auzière concluded her statement by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.