False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Informs Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that false claims online—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment targeting the first lady.
Effects on Everyday Activities
She testified that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that any image could be misused to fuel hateful attacks.
"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," she informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Accusations
The defendants, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. A few had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.
Every defendant is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved linking the disparity in years with the French president to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".
She said, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual fails to mention the issue to her."
Auzière pointed out the repercussions on loved ones, for example the kids hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".
"She has no idea how to end it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."
Judicial Proceedings Context
This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron is male.
They have also filed a US lawsuit over false statements against a media personality who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, several defendants denied the accusations.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
- A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "free speech".
- A third defendant testified he shared content because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The false theory about the first lady's sex circulated partly because their marriage has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
She, aged 24 years older than her husband, originally knew him when working as a educator at his school.
Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in the following year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.
Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.