French Court Convicts Ten People for Online Abuse of First Lady Brigitte Macron

Post by : Saif Nasser

A Paris court has found ten people guilty of cyber harassment against France’s first lady, Brigitte Macron. The ruling marks an important moment in France’s fight against online abuse and false information, especially when it targets public figures and their families.

The case focused on false and hurtful claims spread online about Brigitte Macron’s gender. For years, she and her husband, President Emmanuel Macron, have faced rumors saying she was born male. These claims are untrue and have been widely rejected by evidence and official records. Despite this, the false stories continued to spread on social media.

The court ruled that eight men and two women posted malicious comments that attacked Brigitte Macron’s gender and sexuality. Some even linked the age difference between her and the president to serious crimes, which the court described as deeply harmful and unacceptable. Judges rejected the argument made by some defendants that their comments were meant as humor or satire.

Sentences varied among those convicted. One person received a six-month jail sentence without suspension. Others were given suspended jail terms of up to eight months. The court also ordered fines, mandatory training on cyber harassment, and bans from using certain social media platforms for five of the offenders.

This ruling comes as the Macrons are also pursuing a separate defamation case in the United States against influencer and podcaster Candace Owens. That case involves similar false claims and highlights how online abuse can cross borders and spread quickly.

The decision has sparked debate in France and beyond about freedom of speech and online responsibility. Some of those convicted said the ruling limits free expression. However, the court made it clear that freedom of speech does not protect lies or harassment that cause real harm to individuals.

Brigitte Macron has spoken openly about why she chose to fight these cases in court. She said the attacks against her felt endless and even included attempts to change her identity on official websites. By taking legal action, she hopes to set an example, especially for young people who face bullying every day.

She explained that clear proof, such as birth records, should matter in stopping false stories. More importantly, she said standing up to harassment is necessary to protect others who may not have the power or voice to do so.

The court’s ruling sends a strong message that online abuse has consequences. It also reflects a growing effort in France to hold people accountable for what they say and share online. As digital platforms continue to shape public debate, this case shows that words typed behind a screen can still carry serious legal responsibility.