Magali Berdah's Cyberbullying Case

Overview
In a landmark ruling in France, twenty-eight individuals have been sentenced to jail for their
involvement in the largest cyberbullying case to date, targeting influencer Magali Berdah. The
court's decision highlights the serious consequences of online harassment and the
accountability of those who participate in such behavior.
Background
Magali Berdah, known as the "queen of influencers" in France, has established a successful
career as a lifestyle and fashion expert. She also runs Shauna Events, a company that
promotes other social media personalities. Her troubles began when French rapper Booba,
whose real name is Élie Yaffa, launched a public campaign against her and other influencers,
accusing them of being "thieving influencers." This campaign allegedly incited a wave of online
harassment directed at Berdah.
Court Proceedings
The Paris court found the defendants guilty of harassment, asserting that each person made a
conscious choice to participate in the cyberbullying. The harassment had real and damaging
consequences for Berdah's mental health. She testified that the relentless bullying brought her
"within a whisker of throwing (herself) out of the window," illustrating the severe emotional toll it
took on her life.
Sentencing Details
The sentences for the convicted individuals ranged from four to 18 months, with some of the
terms suspended. In addition to jail time, each defendant was fined between €300 and €700,
and collectively ordered to pay €54,000 in compensation to Berdah. The court also mandated
that they attend citizenship classes and prohibited them from contacting her for two years.
Berdah's Reaction
Magali Berdah expressed her relief and gratitude following the verdict, calling it a "beautiful
victory." She emphasized that the ruling recognized her as a victim after enduring two years of
harassment. Her legal team stated that the convictions serve as a warning that "no one is safe
behind their keyboard," reinforcing the message that online harassment has real-life
consequences.
Booba's Involvement
Booba is facing a separate trial for aggravated harassment related to his actions against Berdah
but has denied any wrongdoing. He claims he did not orchestrate an online mob against her.
The rapper has a controversial history, including a notable brawl at a Paris airport in 2018,
which resulted in both him and another rapper receiving an 18-month suspended jail sentence.
Ongoing Legal Issues
While Berdah celebrates this legal victory, she is also facing her own legal challenges. She is
due in court on a separate charge of money laundering, and her company, Shauna Events, is
under investigation for potential fraud.
Conclusion
The case against the twenty-eight defendants not only sheds light on the pervasive issue of
cyberbullying but also emphasizes the importance of accountability in the digital age. It serves
as a significant precedent in France, illustrating that online harassment can lead to serious legal
repercussions and that victims can seek justice for their suffering.

Reference
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68610123.amp