Inaccurate Claims on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells Judges

The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—including the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the court case of ten people facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the fear that each snapshot might be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.

"The result is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

All is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's identity. For some, this extended to comparing the age gap with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person avoids discussing the issue to her."

She emphasized the impact on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Legal Battle History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight targeting the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements against a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The case asserts that the claim is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is really her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, a few individuals rejected the accusations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his online statements as humorous.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual testified he posted posts because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a point of interest on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her account by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that never stops" for her mother.