False Claims on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment targeting Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her attire to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that any image may be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, regardless of her actions in her daily life," Auzière testified.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from her mother's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day passes when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "She was born male".

"She does not know how to stop it," she testified. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is continually subjected to these attacks."

Court Case Background

This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly a man.

The Macrons have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The case clarifies that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the person cited is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, some of the accused disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his online statements as satirical.
• A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant said he disseminated content because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because their marriage has long been a point of interest on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, aged two decades older than her husband, originally knew the future president when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after her divorce.

She concluded her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.