Misleading Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to Court

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, including her fashion choices to her posture, because of the fear that any image could be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this involved linking the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is continually facing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.

They have also filed a case in America for defamation involving a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The case states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

In court, a few individuals denied the allegations.

  • A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
  • A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
  • Another individual said he disseminated information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's sex spread to some extent because their union has long been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when she was a educator at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they wed in that year, after her marriage dissolution.

She finished her account by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.

Jessica Adams
Jessica Adams

Lena is a tech journalist and AI researcher with over a decade of experience in covering emerging technologies and their societal impacts.