False Allegations on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Informs Judges

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—including the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the legal proceedings of ten people allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against her mother.

Impact on Everyday Activities

She explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, from her attire to her posture, due to the fear that each snapshot might be distorted to advance hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of her activities in her daily life," she testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had a small social media following, while the rest were more prominent.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this extended to comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

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

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing the issue to her."

She highlighted the effects on loved ones, for example the kids learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is the latest phase in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that she is a man.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.

The case states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is actually her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals rejected the charges.

  • An individual, holding a public position, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as humorous.
  • A fiction writer argued that his social media shares were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "freedom of expression".
  • Another individual testified he disseminated content since he thought it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's sex spread to some extent because their marriage has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, first met the future president when working as a teacher at his school.

The connection between them grew through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, after her separation.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have created a "chaos that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.

Tony Stephens
Tony Stephens

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in tech consulting and innovation, specializing in AI integration and market disruption.