Inaccurate Assertions Online Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells Judges

Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of online harassment against the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

She testified that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, from the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," she testified.

Defendants and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while others were better known.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this extended to equating the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, stated how the false claims have caused a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when someone fails to mention this to her."

Auzière pointed out the impact on loved ones, such as the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to stop it," she testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually facing these attacks."

Court Case Context

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady is supposedly transgender.

The Macrons have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements involving a media personality who promoted the theory.

The case clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants disputed the allegations.

  • An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
  • Another defendant argued that his posts were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
  • Another individual said he disseminated posts as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's gender circulated to some extent because their marriage has long been a point of interest on the internet.

She, who is significantly older than her husband, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a educator at his secondary school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following her divorce.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by saying that the false claims have created a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.

Ryan Kelley
Ryan Kelley

Environmental journalist with a decade of experience covering climate science and policy, based in Berlin.