Paris Court Convicts 10 People in Cyberbullying Case Against French First Lady Brigitte Macron

Daftar Isi

 

en01.web.id – France.

A court in Paris on Monday convicted 10 individuals for engaging in cyberbullying against Brigitte Macron, the First Lady of France and wife of President Emmanuel Macron. The verdict, delivered on January 5, 2026, has drawn widespread attention across Europe as authorities intensify efforts to combat online harassment and hate speech.

The case originated from a series of online attacks directed at Brigitte Macron through various social media platforms. Prosecutors said the defendants repeatedly posted insulting, degrading, and hostile messages targeting her personal life, appearance, and dignity. The attacks occurred over an extended period and were deemed to have caused significant psychological distress.

During the trial, the defendants argued that their online comments constituted freedom of expression or political criticism. However, the court rejected these claims, ruling that the actions went far beyond legitimate criticism. Judges determined that the messages were personal, abusive, and systematically aimed at humiliating the victim rather than expressing lawful opinion.

In its ruling, the court found all 10 defendants guilty of online harassment under French law. Sentences varied depending on each individual’s role and level of involvement. Punishments included financial fines, mandatory digital ethics and legal awareness training, and suspended prison sentences, meaning incarceration would apply if further offenses occur.

The judges emphasized that Brigitte Macron’s status as a public figure does not remove her right to legal protection. The court stated that freedom of speech does not grant the right to insult, intimidate, or collectively harass a person, even when the target is a well-known public personality.

French judicial authorities described the ruling as an important legal precedent in addressing cyberbullying. The decision aligns with broader European Union policies aimed at curbing online hate speech and strengthening protections for victims of digital abuse, regardless of social or political status.

The court also highlighted the role of social media in amplifying harmful behavior, warning that online platforms are not lawless spaces. Judges stressed that individuals remain fully accountable for their actions in the digital sphere and may face criminal consequences for violating harassment laws.

The conviction of the 10 individuals sends a clear message that cyberbullying is a serious criminal offense in France. Authorities hope the ruling will deter similar behavior and contribute to creating a safer and more respectful online environment across Europe.