Inaccurate Claims on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of ten people allegedly involved in online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Daily Life

She explained that her mother now is always concerned about how she looks, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that each snapshot could be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.

Each one is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this involved linking her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.

Family Impact

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Hardly a day passes when an individual avoids discussing this to her."

She emphasized the impact on her relatives, such as the kids hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to stop it," she stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Background

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that she is supposedly transgender.

The couple have initiated a case in America for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who spread the theory.

The lawsuit states that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the charges.

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer claimed that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "free speech".
• Another individual testified he shared information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, being two decades older than her husband, initially encountered the future president when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to her divorce.

She finished her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.