Misleading Claims on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Informs Judges

Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse directed at Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to how she stands, due to the fear that each snapshot may be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, no matter what her actions in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Defendants and Allegations

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for internet-based bullying. A few had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this included comparing the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on her relatives, including the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently subjected to these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that the first lady is a man.

The couple have also filed a case in America alleging slander against a political commentator who promoted the allegation.

The legal filing states that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

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

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner explained he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's gender spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a point of interest in digital spaces.

The first lady, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at his school.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they married in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.