False Assertions Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Tells Judges

Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions online—among them the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants facing charges for digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her attire to her posture, because of the apprehension that every photograph may be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. A few had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this included equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive as much as 24 months in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She said, "Not a day goes by when someone does not talk the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the impact on her relatives, for example the younger generation being exposed to malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for public attention, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."

Legal Battle Context

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.

They have initiated a case in America over false statements involving a political commentator who amplified the claim.

The case asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the accusations.

  • A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as satirical.
  • A well-known publicist stated that his posts were meant to be "satire" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
  • Another individual testified he shared posts as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest in digital spaces.

The first lady, who is two decades older than her husband, first met the future president when working as a instructor at his school.

Their bond evolved through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière concluded her account by stating that the false claims have caused a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.

Claudia Spencer
Claudia Spencer

A tech journalist and software analyst with over a decade of experience covering digital trends and innovations.