False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Informs the Tribunal
The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a Paris court that false claims online—among them the unfounded rumor that she had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.
She, a attorney, was called as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at the first lady.
Impact on Personal Routine
Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that each snapshot could be misused to advance hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified.
Those on Trial and Charges
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while several more were more visible.
All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. For some, this involved equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.
If found responsible, they face up to two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".
She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when someone fails to mention this to her."
Auzière pointed out the repercussions on the family, for example her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for public attention, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."
Legal Battle Context
This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that she is supposedly a man.
The Macrons have initiated a US lawsuit for defamation against a media personality who promoted the claim.
The legal filing asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, some of the accused denied the charges.
- An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to cause harm" and described his social media content as humorous.
- A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the legal action could undermine "freedom of expression".
- Another individual explained he disseminated posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The false theory about Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion online.
She, being significantly older than the president, originally knew him when she was a instructor at his school.
The connection between them grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.
She concluded her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.