Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations online—including the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.
She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the legal proceedings of ten people accused of online harassment targeting her mother.
Effects on Everyday Activities
Auzière testified that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that each snapshot could be distorted to fuel negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière testified.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.
All is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this included equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they face up to two years in jail.
Family Impact
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the false claims have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence".
She said, "Not a day goes by when a person fails to mention this to her."
Auzière highlighted the repercussions on the family, for example the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She was born male".
"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly subjected to this abuse."
Judicial Proceedings Background
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case against the false claim that the first lady was transgender.
The couple have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements against a political commentator who spread the allegation.
The legal filing states that the allegation is completely false and points out that the individual referenced is in fact her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, some of the accused denied the charges.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
- Another defendant stated that his online activity were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "free speech".
- An art gallery owner explained he shared information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Relationship Background
The false theory concerning the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has often been a point of interest on the internet.
She, being two decades older than the president, first met the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
The connection between them grew through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, following her divorce.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.