False Assertions on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Tells Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a Paris court that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse targeting the first lady.
Effects on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, including the clothes she wears to how she stands, as a result of the fear that every photograph could be distorted to advance negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her body language, regardless of she's doing in her daily life," she informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Accusations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.
Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. For some, this included equating the age gap with the French president to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they face as much as 24 months in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person does not talk the issue to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on the family, such as the kids hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She was born male".
"She does not know how to stop it," she stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently facing these assaults."
Court Case Context
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady was male.
The couple have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements against a media personality who promoted the allegation.
The case asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is in fact her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, several defendants rejected the accusations.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his social media content as ironic.
- Another defendant stated that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
- A third defendant testified he posted content since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity circulated partly because their marriage has frequently been a topic of comment online.
Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than her husband, initially encountered the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's divorce.
Auzière concluded her statement by expressing that the false claims have created a "chaos that continues endlessly" for the first lady.