Inaccurate Assertions on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Testifies to Court

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims online—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the court case of ten people accused of internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Personal Routine

She testified that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that each snapshot could be misused to fuel malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Charges

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

All is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this involved linking her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Family Impact

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when a person does not talk these claims to her."

She highlighted the repercussions on the family, for example the kids learning about false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently facing this abuse."

Legal Battle Background

This case is the latest phase in a broader legal battle against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

They have initiated a US lawsuit over false statements involving a political commentator who spread the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his posts were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
• A third defendant said he shared information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity gained traction partly because their union has often been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when serving as a educator at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in that year, following her divorce.

She finished her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.