Misleading Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs Court

The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that misleading allegations online—such as the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying against the first lady.

Effects on Personal Routine

She explained that the first lady now is always concerned about how she looks, such as her attire to how she stands, due to the apprehension that each snapshot could be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, no matter what her actions in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while others were better known.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. Among them, this extended to comparing her age difference with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in prison.

Family Impact

She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person fails to mention this to her."

Auzière pointed out the repercussions on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently facing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America over false statements against a conservative podcaster who spread the claim.

The lawsuit states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, several defendants rejected the charges.

  • A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
  • A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
  • An art gallery owner testified he posted information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's sex circulated partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.

Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in the following year, following her divorce.

Auzière concluded her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.

Nicole Carter
Nicole Carter

A seasoned gambling analyst with over a decade of experience in online casino reviews and player strategy development.