Misleading Claims on Social Media Negatively Impacted Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Tells the Tribunal

Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, served as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse against her mother.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, from her attire to how she stands, as a result of the concern that each snapshot could be misused to advance negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.

Every defendant is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when a person does not talk this to her."

She pointed out the impact on the family, for example her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for any of this, and she is continually facing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that she is supposedly transgender.

They have pursued a case in America over false statements against a political commentator who spread the claim.

The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the individual referenced is really her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals denied the charges.

  • One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
  • Another defendant stated that his posts were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "free speech".
  • An art gallery owner said he disseminated content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The false theory concerning the first lady's gender circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, aged significantly older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his school.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, subsequent to her divorce.

She finished her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.

Sherry Patel
Sherry Patel

Cybersecurity specialist with over a decade of experience in threat analysis and digital defense strategies.