Misleading Assertions on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Testifies to the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière explained that the first lady now is always concerned about how she looks, including her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, as a result of the apprehension that any image may be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while several more were better known.

Every defendant is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved equating the disparity in years with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, described how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day passes when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the repercussions on the family, for example her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," she testified. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Court Case History

This case is the latest phase in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that she is male.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a media personality who spread the claim.

The case states that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals rejected the allegations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant claimed that his online activity were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
• Another individual testified he disseminated information because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment online.

She, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when she was a teacher at his school.

The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.