False Claims on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a Paris court that misleading allegations spread through social media—including the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.
She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of online harassment targeting her mother.
Impact on Personal Routine
She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, from her fashion choices to her posture, because of the fear that every photograph might be misused to advance negative campaigns.
"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of her activities in everyday routine," she told the court.
Those on Trial and Accusations
The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.
All is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this included equating the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they could receive up to two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".
She testified, "Not a day passes when an individual fails to mention this to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, such as her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".
"She does not know how to end it," she stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Legal Battle Context
The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is male.
They have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a media personality who amplified the claim.
The legal filing states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is really her sibling.
Trial Testimonies
In court, some of the accused denied the charges.
- An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as ironic.
- Another defendant argued that his posts were intended as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- A third defendant explained he posted information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The false theory regarding the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their union has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.
She, being significantly older than her husband, initially encountered him when serving as a educator at his school.
Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.
She wrapped up her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.