Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.
She, a attorney, was called as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in digital bullying targeting Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Everyday Activities
Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the fear that any image may be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.
Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this involved linking the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a family member from her mother's first marriage, stated how the false claims have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She testified, "Not a day passes when an individual avoids discussing this to her."
She emphasized the effects on the family, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".
"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is continually facing these assaults."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is supposedly transgender.
The Macrons have also filed a case in America alleging slander against a media personality who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is in fact her sibling.
Defendants' Responses
In court, some of the accused disputed the accusations.
- An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as humorous.
- Another defendant stated that his online activity were presented as "irony" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner said he posted content since he thought it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Past Context
The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their marriage has often been a topic of comment online.
She, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when she was a educator at his school.
Their bond grew through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière finished her testimony by expressing that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.