Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells Judges
The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—such as the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals accused of internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.
Impact on Everyday Activities
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the fear that each snapshot might be misused to fuel hateful attacks.
"The result is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Defendants and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had a small social media following, while several more were better known.
Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this extended to comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.
Effect on Relatives
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She explained, "Not a day passes when someone fails to mention this to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on her relatives, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is continually facing this abuse."
Court Case History
This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that she was a man.
The Macrons have initiated a case in America over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.
The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, several defendants denied the allegations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his online statements as satirical.
- Another defendant stated that his social media shares were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner explained he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor about the first lady's identity spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.
The first lady, who is 24 years older than the president, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when she was a educator at his secondary school.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.
She wrapped up her statement by stating that the false claims have caused a "chaos that does not cease" for the first lady.