False Claims on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of online harassment against the first lady.
Effects on Daily Life
She testified that her mother now is always concerned about how she looks, including her attire to how she stands, due to the concern that any image may be misused to advance hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were more visible.
Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included equating the age gap with her husband to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the false claims have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Hardly a day passes when someone does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the repercussions on the family, such as the kids hearing false assertions like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," she testified. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing these assaults."
Court Case History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is transgender.
They have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.
The case states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the allegations.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
- A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "freedom of expression".
- An art gallery owner testified he posted information since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's identity gained traction partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment online.
She, who is two decades older than her husband, first met the future president when she was a instructor at his secondary school.
The connection between them grew through drama activities, and they married in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.
Auzière concluded her account by stating that the false claims have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.