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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

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

Impact on Personal Routine

She stated that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, including her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that any image could be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what she's doing in her daily life," she told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while others were better known.

All is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved comparing the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.

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

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, described how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Scarcely a day passes when someone fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on loved ones, including the kids being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought anything, and she is constantly experiencing this abuse."

Court Case History

This case is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that the first lady was male.

The Macrons have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a media personality who amplified the claim.

The legal filing clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and notes that the person cited is actually her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant testified he shared posts as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.

She, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a instructor at his school.

Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they married in 2007, following her divorce.

She wrapped up her testimony by saying that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.