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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—such as the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying against the first lady.

Effects on Daily Life

She stated that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as her attire to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot might be misused to advance hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Defendants and Accusations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.

Each one is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, described how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

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

She emphasized the effects on the family, including the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case History

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a extended court case targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

They have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who promoted the theory.

The case asserts that the claim is completely false and identifies that the individual referenced is actually her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, some of the accused rejected the allegations.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were intended as "satire" and voiced worry that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he disseminated posts because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim about the first lady's gender circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her account by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that does not cease" for her mother.