False Allegations on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Tells the Tribunal
The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.
Impact on Daily Life
Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to her posture, as a result of the fear that each snapshot could be misused to advance malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she systematically has to pay attention to her outfits, her body language, regardless of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Allegations
The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for online harassment. A few had modest digital reach, while others were better known.
Each one is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the age gap with her husband to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."
Auzière highlighted the effects on her relatives, including the kids learning about false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is permanently subjected to these assaults."
Court Case Background
This case represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.
The couple have initiated a case in America over false statements targeting a media personality who spread the claim.
The case states that the claim is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, some of the accused denied the accusations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
- A well-known publicist claimed that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner testified he disseminated posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's identity gained traction to some extent because their union has often been a point of interest on the internet.
She, aged two decades older than the president, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when she was a teacher at his school.
The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, subsequent to her separation.
Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.