Misleading Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Informs Judges

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions online—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

She explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, from her attire to how she stands, because of the fear that every photograph may be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more visible.

All is accused of spreading defamatory content about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this extended to linking the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive a maximum of two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She testified, "Scarcely a day passes when someone avoids discussing this to her."

She highlighted the repercussions on the family, including the kids hearing malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for anything, and she is continually facing this abuse."

Legal Battle History

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is a man.

They have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements against a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.

The case asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Trial Testimonies

In court, some of the accused denied the accusations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
• Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
• A third defendant said he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated to some extent because their marriage has long been a point of interest online.

The first lady, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when serving as a educator at his secondary school.

The connection between them grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière finished her account by expressing that the false claims have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.