False Assertions on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that misleading allegations online—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment targeting the first lady.
Effects on Everyday Activities
She stated that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the apprehension that every photograph may be distorted to support hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she systematically needs to be careful to her outfits, her body language, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were more visible.
Every defendant is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.
Effect on Relatives
She, a daughter from her mother's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual does not talk the issue to her."
She pointed out the impact on her relatives, for example the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".
"She does not know how to stop it," she testified. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."
Court Case History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron is male.
The Macrons have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a media personality who amplified the claim.
The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is actually her brother.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused rejected the allegations.
- One defendant, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his social media content as humorous.
- A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "freedom of expression".
- Another individual explained he posted content since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory about the first lady's gender spread partly because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion online.
Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, originally knew him when she was a educator at his school.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.
She wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.