False Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Testifies to the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She testified that the first lady now worries constantly about how she looks, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that every photograph could be misused to advance malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Eight men and two women, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while the rest were more prominent.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to linking the disparity in years with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they could receive as much as 24 months in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when an individual fails to mention the issue to her."

She pointed out the repercussions on her relatives, such as the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly facing these assaults."

Court Case History

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the baseless theory that the first lady was transgender.

The couple have initiated a case in America alleging slander targeting a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is completely false and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Defendants' Responses

In court, several defendants rejected the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
• Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could undermine "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner said he posted posts because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when she was a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to her divorce.

She wrapped up her account by saying that the false claims have caused a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.