Inaccurate Allegations on the Internet Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Tells Court
Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals accused of internet-based abuse against her mother.
Impact on Everyday Activities
She explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, from her fashion choices to how she stands, due to the concern that every photograph might be distorted to advance malicious comments.
"The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," she told the court.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.
Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved equating the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.
If convicted, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.
Consequences for Loved Ones
Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Scarcely a day passes when someone avoids discussing this to her."
She highlighted the repercussions on the family, including her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".
"She does not know how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Legal Battle Background
The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that the first lady was male.
The Macrons have initiated a case in America alleging slander against a media personality who promoted the theory.
The case clarifies that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and identifies that the individual referenced is in fact her brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, some of the accused disputed the allegations.
- A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
- Another defendant stated that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- Another individual explained he posted content because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".
Relationship Background
The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's identity spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a point of interest on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a teacher at his secondary school.
Their relationship evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after her separation.
She concluded her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.