Inaccurate Assertions Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Testifies to Court
The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the legal proceedings of ten people accused of internet-based abuse targeting the first lady.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that every photograph may be misused to fuel negative campaigns.
"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, no matter what her activities in her daily life," she told the court.
Defendants and Charges
Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.
Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.
Upon being found guilty, they could receive up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a daughter from her mother's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when someone fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the repercussions on loved ones, such as the kids learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She does not know how to stop it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."
Legal Battle Background
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the false claim that Brigitte Macron is a man.
The couple have also filed a case in America alleging slander involving a political commentator who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Accused Individuals' Statements
Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the accusations.
- A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
- A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
- A third defendant testified he shared posts because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because their union has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.
The first lady, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when working as a teacher at the institution he attended.
Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, following her marriage dissolution.
She concluded her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.