False Allegations Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Informs the Tribunal
Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that she is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.
Effects on Personal Routine
Auzière stated that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the fear that each snapshot could be misused to support hateful attacks.
"The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, regardless of her actions in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.
Accused Individuals and Accusations
The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had modest digital reach, while others were better known.
Each one is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved equating the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.
If found responsible, they face up to two years in incarceration.
Effect on Relatives
She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, described how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her health" and a "decline of her overall existence".
She explained, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual does not talk these claims to her."
Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, including the kids hearing malicious statements like "She is lying" or "She is your grandfather".
"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."
Court Case Context
The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is transgender.
They have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a media personality who promoted the theory.
The legal filing clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and points out that the person cited is actually her brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
During the trial, some of the accused denied the accusations.
- An individual, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his posts as humorous.
- A well-known publicist stated that his posts were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
- Another individual testified he posted information because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".
Past Context
The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a point of interest online.
Brigitte Macron, who is 24 years older than her husband, originally knew him when serving as a educator at his school.
Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, subsequent to her divorce.
Auzière finished her account by stating that the false claims have caused a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.