False Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Tells Court
The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a attorney, served as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment targeting Brigitte Macron.
Effects on Personal Routine
She explained that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, including her fashion choices to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that any image might be distorted to advance negative campaigns.
"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in her daily life," she testified.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. A few had limited online influence, while several more were better known.
Each one is accused of spreading defamatory content about the first lady's identity. Among them, this included comparing the age gap with her husband to inappropriate terms.
If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in incarceration.
Family Impact
Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".
She said, "Not a day passes when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."
She pointed out the impact on the family, such as the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".
"She is unsure what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for anything, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."
Court Case Context
The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the inaccurate allegation that she was a man.
The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation against a political commentator who spread the claim.
The legal filing asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.
Trial Testimonies
During the trial, several defendants rejected the allegations.
- An individual, holding a public position, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
- Another defendant stated that his online activity were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "freedom of expression".
- An art gallery owner testified he posted information as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction partly because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.
Brigitte Macron, who is two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when she was a teacher at his secondary school.
Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière finished her account by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "chaos that continues endlessly" for the first lady.
