Inaccurate Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells the Tribunal

The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, from her attire to how she stands, as a result of the fear that every photograph may be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, no matter what her activities in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Allegations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.

All is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this involved comparing the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person avoids discussing this to her."

She pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she never asked for public attention, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly a man.

The couple have initiated a case in America for defamation targeting a political commentator who amplified the claim.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the allegations.

  • A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
  • Another defendant stated that his online activity were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "free speech".
  • An art gallery owner explained he disseminated posts because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity gained traction partly because their union has often been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, originally knew him when working as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "chaos that does not cease" for the first lady.

Elizabeth Murray
Elizabeth Murray

Wildlife biologist and photographer specializing in sloth conservation, with over a decade of field experience in Central and South America.