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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Impact on Everyday Activities

She explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, such as her attire to her posture, due to the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Charges

Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while others were more prominent.

All is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this extended to comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Hardly a day passes when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example her grandchildren being exposed to malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she testified. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Legal Battle Background

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that she is supposedly a man.

The Macrons have pursued a case in America for defamation against a conservative podcaster who spread the theory.

The case asserts that the claim is completely false and identifies that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.

Trial Testimonies

In court, some of the accused rejected the accusations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as satirical.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the case could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he shared content because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor regarding Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction in part because their union has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when she was a teacher at his school.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for Brigitte Macron.