Misleading Assertions on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to the Tribunal
The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the baseless theory that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting her mother.
Consequences on Daily Life
She stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as her attire to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image could be misused to support hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," she informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Accusations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.
All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this included linking the disparity in years with the French president to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in prison.
Family Impact
Auzière, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."
Auzière highlighted the impact on loved ones, such as the kids learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea what to do about it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."
Court Case Background
This case represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that the first lady is transgender.
The couple have initiated a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.
The case asserts that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, some of the accused rejected the accusations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
- A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
- Another individual explained he disseminated posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The false theory concerning the first lady's identity spread partly because their union has frequently been a point of interest online.
Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than the president, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when she was a teacher at his secondary school.
The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following her divorce.
She finished her testimony by saying that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.