Misleading Assertions Online Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Informs the Tribunal

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Daily Life

She testified that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the apprehension that every photograph may be distorted to fuel negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. A few had a small social media following, while several more were better known.

Each one is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Hardly a day passes when an individual fails to mention this to her."

She pointed out the repercussions on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to end it," she stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually facing these assaults."

Legal Battle Background

This case is the latest phase in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron is male.

They have also filed a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a political commentator who promoted the claim.

The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and notes that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, some of the accused disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "free speech".
• Another individual explained he shared posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's gender gained traction to some extent because their marriage has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, who is significantly older than her husband, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through the school's theatre programme, and they married in 2007, following her marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.