False Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Informs Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—among them the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse against her mother.
Impact on Everyday Activities
She explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, including her fashion choices to her posture, due to the fear that each snapshot might be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Accusations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for online harassment. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.
Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved linking the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they could receive as much as 24 months in incarceration.
Family Impact
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, described how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She said, "Hardly a day passes when an individual does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière emphasized the impact on her relatives, including her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".
"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is permanently facing these assaults."
Court Case History
This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is a man.
The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a media personality who spread the theory.
The case clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused rejected the charges.
- An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
- A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant said he shared information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
She, aged significantly older than the president, first met him when working as a instructor at his school.
Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they married in that year, subsequent to her divorce.
She concluded her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.