False Allegations Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells the Tribunal
The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—among them the groundless claim that she is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse targeting her mother.
Impact on Everyday Activities
She explained that her mother now is always concerned about how she looks, from her fashion choices to her posture, due to the fear that each snapshot might be distorted to support malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Those on Trial and Charges
The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. A few had a small social media following, while others were better known.
Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this included comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She said, "Not a day goes by when an individual does not talk these claims to her."
She highlighted the impact on the family, such as the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."
Court Case History
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is male.
They have initiated a legal action in the United States over false statements against a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.
The case states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is really her sibling.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, several defendants rejected the accusations.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as humorous.
- Another defendant claimed that his posts were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could undermine "free speech".
- A third defendant testified he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Past Context
The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's identity gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion on the internet.
She, aged significantly older than the president, first met him when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they married in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
She wrapped up her statement by saying that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "chaos that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.