In a notable judgment this week, a French court convicted ten individuals on charges of cyberbullying related to spreading false claims concerning First Lady Brigitte Macron’s gender identity and personal history. The case highlights an increasing focus within France on addressing online harassment.
The convicted individuals, comprised of eight men and two women aged between 41 and 65, were sentenced to various penalties. These ranged from mandatory participation in cyberbullying awareness programs to eight months of suspended imprisonment. Additionally, one individual, absent during the trial, received a six-month prison sentence. All were ordered to collectively pay €10,000 (approximately $11,700) in damages and attend cyberbullying training. Furthermore, three individuals, identified as key instigators, faced a six-month suspension of their social media accounts. Details of the judgment can be found in JURIST.
The accusations centered on publishing what the court described as “malicious comments” online, alleging that Brigitte Macron was born male and attributing sinister connotations to the 24-year age gap between her and President Emmanuel Macron. Such narratives have persisted since Emmanuel Macron’s ascendancy to the presidency in 2017, as the couple’s relationship has consistently been a subject of public scrutiny.
Presiding Judge Thierry Donard condemned the statements as “malicious, degrading and insulting,” determining that they inflicted intentional harm on the First Lady. The use of the internet to facilitate these actions was viewed as an aggravating factor, underscoring the court’s determination to address such harassment robustly.
The court’s decision reflects a broader legislative framework aimed at combating digital abuses. Under Article 222-33-2-2 of the French Penal Code, repeated harassment that deteriorates living conditions or impacts health may result in up to two years’ imprisonment and fines up to €30,000 (approximately $35,200) when perpetrated online.
This case forms part of France’s efforts to tackle online harassment, a battle that includes hotlines for victims and a mobile application to document and report abuse. These steps underline the country’s commitment to safeguarding individuals against cyberbullying.
On a similar note, the Macrons have taken legal action beyond France, pursuing a lawsuit in the United States against commentator Candace Owens, who produced a video series titled “Becoming Brigitte,” which propagated claims paralleling those at the heart of the French convictions.