Inaccurate Allegations Online Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Tells the Tribunal

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals accused of online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, due to the concern that any image might be distorted to fuel negative campaigns.

"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, in that age range, are facing charges for online harassment. A few had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this extended to equating her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.

Family Impact

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention these claims to her."

She emphasized the impact on loved ones, including the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Background

This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America alleging slander against a political commentator who amplified the theory.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is in fact Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
• Another individual testified he shared posts as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's gender gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

She, aged 24 years older than the president, first met the future president when working as a educator at the institution he attended.

The connection between them evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by saying that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.