False Allegations on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs the Tribunal

The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants accused of online harassment against the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière stated that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph could be misused to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of her activities in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for online harassment. Some had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included equating the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.

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

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person avoids discussing these claims to her."

She emphasized the effects on her relatives, for example her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these attacks."

Court Case History

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that she was transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is actually her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants disputed the accusations.

  • One defendant, serving as a local official, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his online statements as satirical.
  • A well-known publicist stated that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
  • An art gallery owner testified he shared information since he thought it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity spread partly because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, who is significantly older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to her divorce.

She finished her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.

Jasmin Curtis
Jasmin Curtis

A software engineer and tech writer passionate about open-source projects and digital transformation, with over a decade of industry experience.