False Claims on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells Court

The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the trial of ten people allegedly involved in online harassment against her mother.

Impact on Personal Routine

She testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the fear that every photograph might be distorted to advance negative campaigns.

"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her body language, no matter what her actions in her daily life," she informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to equating the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive a maximum of two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual fails to mention the issue to her."

She highlighted the impact on loved ones, such as the younger generation learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently facing this abuse."

Court Case Background

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is a man.

The Macrons have initiated a case in America over false statements against a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the name mentioned is in fact her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the allegations.

  • A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as ironic.
  • A fiction writer stated that his online activity were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "free speech".
  • A third defendant testified he shared posts as he believed it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory about the first lady's sex gained traction to some extent because their union has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, who is two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when serving as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they married in 2007, after her divorce.

Auzière finished her statement by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.

Cory Schwartz
Cory Schwartz

A software engineer and tech writer passionate about emerging technologies and digital transformation.