🔗 Share this article

Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the unfounded rumor that she is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying against her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

She explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in everyday routine," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this involved equating her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day passes when someone fails to mention this to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on her relatives, such as the younger generation being exposed to hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly facing these assaults."

Court Case History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that she was transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America alleging slander targeting a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The legal filing states that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, a few individuals denied the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant stated that his posts were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he posted content as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their union has frequently been a topic of comment on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his school.

The connection between them grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She concluded her account by saying that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.