Misleading Allegations on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people accused of internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
She stated that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, due to the concern that every photograph could be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.
"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were more prominent.
Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in jail.
Family Impact
She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".
She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual does not talk the issue to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on loved ones, such as her grandchildren hearing malicious statements like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is continually subjected to this abuse."
Judicial Proceedings Context
This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the baseless theory that she was a man.
They have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a political commentator who promoted the theory.
The legal filing asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the accusations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
- A well-known publicist claimed that his posts were intended as "humor" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner testified he disseminated content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".
Relationship Background
The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity spread to some extent because their union has frequently been a subject of discussion on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when serving as a teacher at his school.
Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after her divorce.
She wrapped up her testimony by expressing that the false claims have produced a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.