Misleading Assertions on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Informs the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment against her mother.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that every photograph might be misused to advance negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she constantly needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.

Every defendant is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they face up to two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when a person avoids discussing these claims to her."

She pointed out the effects on the family, including the kids learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to stop it," she testified. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently experiencing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that the first lady was a man.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is completely false and notes that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
• Another defendant argued that his posts were intended as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "free speech".
• Another individual said he shared posts as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's identity spread to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is 24 years older than the president, originally knew the future president when working as a educator at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She concluded her account by expressing that the false claims have produced a "whirlwind that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.