Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the unfounded rumor that she had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
She, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the trial of ten people accused of digital bullying directed at her mother.
Effects on Everyday Activities
She explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, from her attire to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot might be distorted to support malicious comments.
"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," Auzière told the court.
Those on Trial and Allegations
The defendants, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were more visible.
Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this included linking her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they could receive as much as 24 months in incarceration.
Family Impact
She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the false claims have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".
She said, "Hardly a day passes when someone does not talk these claims to her."
She emphasized the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly experiencing this abuse."
Legal Battle History
This case represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the false claim that she was transgender.
The Macrons have pursued a US lawsuit alleging slander against a media personality who spread the theory.
The case states that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is really her brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals denied the charges.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
- Another defendant stated that his posts were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner testified he shared information since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Past Context
The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's sex spread partly because their union has long been a topic of comment online.
The first lady, aged two decades older than her husband, initially encountered him when she was a educator at his school.
The connection between them developed through the school's theatre programme, and they married in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
She wrapped up her testimony by saying that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.