Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the unfounded rumor that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants accused of digital bullying targeting her mother.
Impact on Daily Life
She testified that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her attire to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that any image might be misused to advance negative campaigns.
"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, regardless of her activities in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Allegations
Eight men and two women, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.
All is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.
If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.
Family Impact
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".
She said, "Hardly a day goes by when someone does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière highlighted the effects on loved ones, for example the kids being exposed to false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".
"She has no idea how to stop it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."
Judicial Proceedings Context
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that she is supposedly transgender.
They have initiated a case in America alleging slander against a media personality who amplified the allegation.
The case states that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is actually her sibling.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, several defendants denied the accusations.
- One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his social media content as humorous.
- A fiction writer claimed that his posts were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
- Another individual testified he shared information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's identity gained traction partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a point of interest in digital spaces.
She, who is significantly older than the president, originally knew the future president when she was a instructor at the institution he attended.
Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in that year, following her marriage dissolution.
She wrapped up her account by saying that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.
