False Claims on the Internet Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Testifies to Court
The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor 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 her mother.
Impact on Personal Routine
She stated that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to support hateful attacks.
"The consequence is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.
Defendants and Accusations
Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.
Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included comparing the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.
Consequences for Loved Ones
She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".
She said, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual does not talk the issue to her."
She emphasized the impact on the family, for example the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually subjected to these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings History
The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.
They have also filed a case in America alleging slander involving a political commentator who amplified the allegation.
The lawsuit clarifies that the allegation is completely false and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Trial Testimonies
Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the charges.
- One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
- Another defendant claimed that his posts were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- An art gallery owner explained he shared content as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Past Context
The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's sex gained traction partly because their marriage has often been a point of interest on the internet.
Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, first met the future president when working as a teacher at his secondary school.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière concluded her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.