🔗 Share this article

The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of ten people facing charges for online harassment targeting her mother.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the concern that any image might be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Accusations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

Each one is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included equating the age gap with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they face up to two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when someone does not talk this to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on the family, such as the younger generation hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "She was born male".

"She does not know how to stop it," she stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that she is supposedly transgender.

They have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander targeting a political commentator who amplified the theory.

The case clarifies that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is really her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the charges.

• An individual, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his social media content as ironic.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he shared information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender circulated partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

She, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they married in that year, after her separation.

She finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.