Misleading Claims on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Informs Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying targeting the first lady.
Consequences on Everyday Activities
Auzière testified that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the concern that each snapshot might be misused to advance malicious comments.
"The result is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Defendants and Allegations
Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to comparing the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they could receive a maximum of two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her health" and a "decline of her overall existence".
She said, "Scarcely a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example the kids hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".
"She does not know how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly facing these assaults."
Court Case Context
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that she is supposedly a man.
The Macrons have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a political commentator who spread the allegation.
The legal filing asserts that the accusation is completely false and identifies that the person cited is in fact her brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, a few individuals disputed the accusations.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
- A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "freedom of expression".
- A third defendant said he posted posts since he thought it was an international matter with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory about Brigitte Macron's gender circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a topic of comment on the internet.
She, aged significantly older than the president, initially encountered the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
Their bond grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
She finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.