Misleading Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Daughter Testifies to Court

Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—such as the baseless theory that she was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals accused of internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Effects on Personal Routine

She testified that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the concern that every photograph could be distorted to fuel malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she always needs to be careful to what she wears, her body language, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while others were better known.

Each one is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive up to two years in prison.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, stated how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She said, "Scarcely a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on loved ones, including the kids learning about malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually facing these attacks."

Legal Battle Background

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that she is a man.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation against a political commentator who spread the allegation.

The case clarifies that the claim is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals rejected the charges.

  • A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
  • Another defendant argued that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "the right to speak freely".
  • Another individual testified he shared content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's sex gained traction in part because their marriage has frequently been a topic of comment on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when she was a educator at the institution he attended.

The connection between them grew through drama activities, and they married in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière concluded her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.

Kaitlin Warren
Kaitlin Warren

Tech enthusiast and business strategist with over a decade of experience in digital transformation and startup consulting.