False Allegations Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Judges

Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment directed at her mother.

Impact on Everyday Activities

She explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that any image might be misused to support malicious comments.

"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what she's doing in her daily life," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are in court for online harassment. Several had modest digital reach, while others were better known.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this involved linking the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on her relatives, including the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly experiencing this abuse."

Legal Battle History

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.

The Macrons have initiated a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a media personality who promoted the theory.

The case states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the accusations.

  • An individual, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
  • A well-known publicist argued that his online activity were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "free speech".
  • A third defendant testified he shared posts as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, who is significantly older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when she was a educator at his school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to her separation.

She wrapped up her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.

Dylan Shaw
Dylan Shaw

Tech enthusiast and AI researcher with a passion for demystifying complex digital concepts for a broad audience.