False Assertions on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Tells Judges
The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.
She, a attorney, served as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting her mother.
Impact on Personal Routine
She testified that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that each snapshot might be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.
"The result is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, no matter what she's doing in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had limited online influence, while others were better known.
Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the baseless rumors have caused a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."
She pointed out the effects on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She was born male".
"She has no idea how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently facing these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron was transgender.
They have initiated a case in America alleging slander targeting a political commentator who amplified the theory.
The case asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is in fact her brother.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the allegations.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as humorous.
- A well-known publicist stated that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant testified he disseminated content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's gender spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.
Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his secondary school.
Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière concluded her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for the first lady.