False Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells Court

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the apprehension that each snapshot may be distorted to support hateful attacks.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, regardless of her actions in her daily life," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while the rest were more prominent.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this involved equating the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

She, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual does not talk this to her."

She emphasized the effects on her relatives, such as the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."

Court Case History

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a extended court case targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron is supposedly male.

They have pursued a case in America over false statements against a media personality who spread the allegation.

The case states that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, some of the accused rejected the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual said he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, being two decades older than her husband, first met the future president when she was a educator at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.