Legal Battles Over Online Harassment: Brigitte Macron vs. The Spread of False Claims

In an alarming turn of events, ten individuals are set to stand trial in Paris on Monday for their roles in the online harassment of Brigitte Macron, the French first lady. This trial represents a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle against defamatory claims and online bullying that have crossed borders, echoing similar legal actions in the United States. The case stems from an unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux. This false claim, which has been propagated particularly by right-wing podcaster Candace Owens, has gained traction over the years, leading the Macrons to take legal action. In July, they filed a defamation lawsuit in the United States, detailing how such baseless allegations have resulted in a relentless campaign of humiliation and bullying. The Macrons assert that the assertions made about Brigitte are "verifiably false" and represent a serious offense against her dignity. The U.S. lawsuit highlighted that the narrative was grotesque and untrue, pointing out that Jean-Michel Trogneux is actually Brigitte’s 80-year-old brother, not a name she was allegedly born with. He has been a supportive figure, attending significant events like both of Emmanuel Macron’s presidential inaugurations. The upcoming trial in Paris, however, is distinct from their American legal battles. It follows a complaint filed by Brigitte Macron in August 2024, which has led to a formal investigation and subsequent legal actions against those involved in promoting the harassment online. The defendants—eight men and two women aged between 41 and 60—face serious allegations of making malicious and defamatory statements regarding Brigitte's gender and sexuality, some of which included disturbing comparisons regarding her age gap with her husband to pedophilia. Among those charged is Aurélien Poirson Atlan, a publicist often linked to conspiracy theories under the pseudonym "Zoé Sagan," and Delphine J, a self-described spiritual medium who previously published defaming content on YouTube alongside another controversial figure. This current legal situation is yet another facet of the unique challenges faced by the Macrons. The accusations regarding their relationship have often been discussed, especially since Brigitte is twenty-four years older than Emmanuel Macron. Their romance began when she was a teacher at his secondary school in Amiens, yet their connection has been misconstrued and sensationalized online. Despite the extensive harassment campaign, Brigitte Macron has been relatively silent on these allegations since 2022, reflecting on their destructive nature. She highlighted the personal impact of such false claims, asserting that fighting online bullying is a personal mission of hers—to set a precedent for others in similar situations. As the trial begins, it poses broader questions about accountability in the digital age, the legality of online speech, and the protection of individuals against unfounded online defamation. This case could set an important legal precedent in France and beyond as society grapples with the consequences of rampant misinformation and online harassment. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2