False Allegations on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells the Tribunal

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière stated that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the concern that any image may be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, her posture, no matter what she's doing in her daily life," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

She highlighted the repercussions on her relatives, including the kids hearing false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She has no idea what to do about it," she stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for any of this, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."

Court Case Background

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady is supposedly transgender.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.

The case clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the charges.

  • An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
  • A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were meant to be "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "freedom of expression".
  • Another individual said he shared content as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because their marriage has long been a point of interest online.

She, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when she was a instructor at his secondary school.

Their relationship grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, after her separation.

She finished her statement by saying that the inaccurate allegations have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.

Anthony Ward
Anthony Ward

A tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies across Europe.