Inaccurate Assertions Online Damaged Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Informs Judges

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a testifier in the trial of ten people allegedly involved in online harassment directed at her mother.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière testified that her mother now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, due to the apprehension that each snapshot could be distorted 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 day-to-day existence," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for online harassment. A few had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Hardly a day passes when a person does not talk this to her."

Auzière pointed out the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly subjected to these attacks."

Legal Battle History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the false claim that she was male.

They have also filed a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a media personality who spread the allegation.

The legal filing asserts that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Trial Testimonies

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the accusations.

  • A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his posts as ironic.
  • Another defendant claimed that his posts were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "the right to speak freely".
  • An art gallery owner testified he shared content since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity circulated partly because their marriage has long been a point of interest on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when she was a educator at his school.

Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after her separation.

Auzière concluded her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.

James Fisher
James Fisher

A data scientist and tech writer passionate about demystifying AI and emerging technologies through accessible, in-depth content.