Misleading Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Court

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals allegedly involved in online harassment directed at her mother.

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot might be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," she testified.

Defendants and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this involved linking the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Not a day passes when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to stop it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was a man.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a political commentator who amplified the allegation.

The case states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is in fact Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, some of the accused disputed the allegations.

  • One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
  • Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
  • Another individual explained he posted content because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory about the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his school.

Their relationship evolved through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, following her marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "chaos that never stops" for the first lady.

Crystal Hartman
Crystal Hartman

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