Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations online—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

She, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants facing charges for online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Personal Routine

She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the concern that any image may be misused to advance negative campaigns.

"The result is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.

Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this involved equating her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

She, a family member from her mother's first marriage, described how the false claims have caused a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She testified, "Scarcely a day passes when a person does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière highlighted the effects on loved ones, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Context

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender.

The Macrons have pursued a case in America over false statements against a media personality who amplified the claim.

The case states that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is actually her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

In court, a few individuals denied the charges.

  • An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as satirical.
  • Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "the right to speak freely".
  • A third defendant testified he disseminated posts because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender circulated to some extent because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, aged significantly older than her husband, originally knew him when she was a teacher at his school.

Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, following her marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have created a "chaos that never stops" for her mother.

Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson

A digital nomad and lifestyle blogger passionate about minimalist design and sustainable living, sharing experiences from travels across Europe.