Misleading Assertions on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells Court
The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.
Impact on Personal Routine
Auzière testified that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, from her attire to how she stands, due to the fear that each snapshot might be misused to support hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she always needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Defendants and Charges
Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. Several had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.
Each one is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this involved comparing the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.
Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "decline of her quality of life".
She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when someone avoids discussing the issue to her."
Auzière emphasized the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation being exposed to hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She was born male".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She's not elected, she never asked for public attention, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."
Court Case Background
The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron is supposedly male.
They have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a political commentator who amplified the claim.
The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the person cited is actually her sibling.
Trial Testimonies
In court, a few individuals rejected the accusations.
- A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
- A well-known publicist stated that his online activity were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner explained he disseminated content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Relationship Background
The inaccurate claim regarding the first lady's gender gained traction in part because their marriage has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.
The first lady, aged significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.
Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.