Misleading Assertions on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells the Tribunal

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—including the groundless claim that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Daily Life

She explained that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, from her attire to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in her daily life," she testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while others were more visible.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

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

She explained, "Not a day passes when a person fails to mention these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on her relatives, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently experiencing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight against the inaccurate allegation that she was male.

The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, a few individuals denied the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his social media content as ironic.
• A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the trial could threaten "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner explained he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction partly because their union has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being two decades older than the president, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when she was a educator at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She concluded her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.