Inaccurate Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Informs Judges

The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the court case of ten people allegedly involved in internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that each snapshot may be misused to advance negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.

All is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they face up to two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual fails to mention this to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on the family, including the kids learning about malicious statements like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," she testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight against the baseless theory that she was transgender.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation against a media personality who promoted the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

  • A retired business owner, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
  • Another defendant stated that his posts were meant to be "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
  • Another individual testified he disseminated content since he thought it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory concerning the first lady's identity circulated in part because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.

She, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in that year, after her marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "chaos that does not cease" for the first lady.

Andrew Moore
Andrew Moore

A financial journalist with over a decade of experience covering global markets and economic policy.