False Assertions on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to Judges

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

She testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, including her attire to how she stands, because of the concern that every photograph might be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her body language, no matter what she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this involved comparing the age gap with the French president to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive up to two years in prison.

Family Impact

She, a family member from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day passes when someone does not talk this to her."

She highlighted the effects on loved ones, such as her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was a man.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation against a media personality who amplified the theory.

The case asserts that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is in fact her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the charges.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as humorous.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "free speech".
• A third defendant said he posted content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity gained traction to some extent because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when she was a teacher at his school.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière concluded her statement by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.