False Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims online—including the groundless claim that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at her mother.
Effects on Personal Routine
She testified that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, due to the fear that any image could be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière testified.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.
Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they face up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, stated how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She testified, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual does not talk the issue to her."
Auzière pointed out the repercussions on her relatives, including the younger generation hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."
Court Case Context
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.
The Macrons have initiated a US lawsuit over false statements targeting a media personality who spread the claim.
The case states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is really her brother.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, a few individuals disputed the accusations.
- An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
- A well-known publicist argued that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
- Another individual explained he posted information since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's gender circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when working as a educator at his school.
Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they married in the following year, following her divorce.
Auzière concluded her statement by expressing that the false claims have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.