Inaccurate Claims on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Informs Court
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the trial of ten people allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at her mother.
Effects on Daily Life
Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the apprehension that every photograph could be distorted to advance negative campaigns.
"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, no matter what she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Charges
The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while others were more prominent.
All is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved equating the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they could receive a maximum of two years in jail.
Effect on Relatives
She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, described how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her daily happiness".
She explained, "Not a day goes by when someone fails to mention this to her."
Auzière pointed out the impact on her relatives, including the younger generation hearing false assertions like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea what to do about it," she testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that the first lady was male.
The couple have also filed a case in America for defamation involving a political commentator who spread the claim.
The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is in fact her brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, a few individuals denied the charges.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
- Another defendant stated that his online activity were meant to be "humor" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner testified he posted posts because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".
Relationship Background
The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's identity gained traction partly because their union has frequently been a topic of comment in digital spaces.
She, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when she was a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their relationship developed through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.
Auzière wrapped up her account by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.