False Assertions Online Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Judges
Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—including the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the court case of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, from her attire to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.
"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Charges
Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.
Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to linking her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in incarceration.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, described how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."
She pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example the kids hearing malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".
"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."
Court Case History
This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.
They have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements against a political commentator who promoted the theory.
The case states that the allegation is totally unfounded and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact her older brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, a few individuals rejected the allegations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
- A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
- A third defendant said he posted information as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".
Personal History
The false theory concerning the first lady's gender circulated in part because their union has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his secondary school.
Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière finished her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.