Misleading Claims Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Tells Judges

The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—among them the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse directed at her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière testified that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot may be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.

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

Defendants and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

All is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face a maximum of two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Not a day passes when an individual avoids discussing the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She is unsure how to end it," she stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for any of this, and she is permanently subjected to these attacks."

Legal Battle Context

This case represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly male.

The Macrons have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements involving a media personality who spread the theory.

The lawsuit states that the claim is completely false and notes that the person cited is in fact her brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the charges.

  • One defendant, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "never intended to cause harm" and described his online statements as humorous.
  • Another defendant stated that his online activity were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
  • A third defendant testified he posted information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's gender spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, being 24 years older than her husband, originally knew the future president when working as a educator at the institution he attended.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "chaos that never stops" for the first lady.

Charles Weeks
Charles Weeks

Elara Vance is a tech enthusiast and writer with a passion for exploring emerging technologies and sharing practical insights.