False Claims on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.
She, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying against the first lady.
Impact on Daily Life
Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that every photograph may be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she constantly needs to be careful to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.
Defendants and Allegations
Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
Every defendant is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved linking the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual does not talk this to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea how to stop it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Court Case Background
This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was transgender.
The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is completely false and points out that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Trial Testimonies
In court, some of the accused rejected the allegations.
- An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his posts as ironic.
- A well-known publicist stated that his posts were intended as "humor" and expressed concern that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant testified he shared content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment on the internet.
The first lady, who is two decades older than the president, initially encountered the future president when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.
Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.
She wrapped up her account by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.