Inaccurate Assertions on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Testifies to Court

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the concern that any image may be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this included equating the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive a maximum of two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day goes by when a person does not talk the issue to her."

Auzière highlighted the repercussions on loved ones, for example the kids being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."

Court Case History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case against the false claim that the first lady was transgender.

The Macrons have initiated a case in America over false statements targeting a political commentator who spread the allegation.

The legal filing asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the individual referenced is actually her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, some of the accused disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• A fiction writer claimed that his posts were meant to be "irony" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he disseminated posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory about the first lady's sex circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.

She, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when she was a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She finished her testimony by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "chaos that does not cease" for her mother.