Inaccurate Claims on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims online—including the baseless theory that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of online harassment targeting the first lady.
Effects on Everyday Activities
Auzière explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that every photograph might be manipulated to advance malicious comments.
"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Defendants and Charges
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while others were better known.
All is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they face up to two years in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a daughter from her mother's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She testified, "Not a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."
Auzière emphasized the effects on her relatives, including the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".
"She does not know how to end it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings Context
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender.
The couple have initiated a case in America alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.
The case states that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is really her brother.
Defendants' Responses
Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the accusations.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as humorous.
- A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner said he shared content because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than her husband, initially encountered the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.
Their bond grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following her separation.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the false claims have produced a "chaos that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.