False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Child Testifies to the Tribunal
The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.
Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse targeting the first lady.
Impact on Everyday Activities
She explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to how she stands, as a result of the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to advance malicious comments.
"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.
Those on Trial and Accusations
Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more visible.
All is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.
Upon being found guilty, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.
Effect on Relatives
Auzière, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".
She said, "Not a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."
She highlighted the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".
"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly facing these attacks."
Judicial Proceedings History
The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that she is a man.
They have pursued a US lawsuit alleging slander targeting a media personality who promoted the allegation.
The case asserts that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.
Accused Individuals' Statements
In court, several defendants denied the allegations.
- An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
- Another defendant claimed that his posts were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "free speech".
- A third defendant testified he posted posts as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".
Personal History
The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest on the internet.
The first lady, who is 24 years older than her husband, initially encountered him when working as a educator at the institution he attended.
Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.
Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.
