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The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the baseless theory that she was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Daily Life

She testified that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to her posture, as a result of the concern that every photograph could be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for online harassment. Some had a small social media following, while several more were more visible.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. Among them, this involved equating the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

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

Auzière highlighted the effects on her relatives, for example the kids hearing malicious statements like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She does not know how to end it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for anything, and she is permanently facing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron is a man.

The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The legal filing asserts that the claim is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

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

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "freedom of expression".
• Another individual explained he disseminated content as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion online.

She, who is two decades older than the president, first met the future president when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, after her divorce.

She finished her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.