Inaccurate Claims Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs Judges
The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the trial of ten people allegedly involved in online harassment targeting her mother.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
Auzière stated that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the fear that any image may be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.
"The outcome is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.
Defendants and Charges
Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.
All is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.
Family Impact
Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the false claims have resulted in a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Hardly a day passes when a person avoids discussing this to her."
She pointed out the impact on loved ones, such as her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".
"She does not know how to end it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually experiencing these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that she is supposedly a man.
They have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the claim.
The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the charges.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
- A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were presented as "humor" and expressed concern that the legal action could threaten "freedom of expression".
- Another individual testified he disseminated information as he believed it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction partly because their union has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.
The first lady, being significantly older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.
The connection between them evolved through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following her separation.
She finished her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.