False Allegations on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Testifies to Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people allegedly involved in internet-based abuse targeting Brigitte Macron.
Consequences on Personal Routine
Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the apprehension that each snapshot could be misused to advance negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while several more were more visible.
Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the false claims have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière emphasized the effects on loved ones, including the younger generation hearing false assertions like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is continually subjected to this abuse."
Judicial Proceedings Background
This case represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was a man.
They have pursued a case in America over false statements targeting a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.
The lawsuit states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.
Defendants' Responses
In court, several defendants denied the charges.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to cause harm" and described his online statements as satirical.
- Another defendant claimed that his online activity were presented as "irony" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "free speech".
- A third defendant said he disseminated posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Past Context
The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity gained traction to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.
She, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when working as a teacher at the institution he attended.
Their relationship grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière concluded her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.