Misleading Assertions Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Court

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Personal Routine

She explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.

"The result is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," she told the court.

Defendants and Charges

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

Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this included linking the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

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

Family Impact

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

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

She emphasized the effects on her relatives, such as the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to end it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently facing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that she is male.

The Macrons have also filed a US lawsuit over false statements involving a media personality who amplified the theory.

The case states that the claim is completely false and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, some of the accused denied the allegations.

  • An individual, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his online statements as ironic.
  • A well-known publicist stated that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
  • A third defendant said he shared content since he thought it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

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

The connection between them grew through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.

Joshua Reid
Joshua Reid

A technology strategist with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and startup ecosystems across Europe.