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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying against her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

She explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that any image could be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while several more were more visible.

Each one is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this extended to comparing the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when a person fails to mention this to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on the family, for example her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "She is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly subjected to this abuse."

Court Case History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is a man.

The couple have initiated a case in America for defamation targeting a media personality who amplified the claim.

The lawsuit states that the allegation is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is in fact her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the accusations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his social media shares were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner testified he posted posts since he thought it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

She, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when working as a educator at his school.

The connection between them grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière finished her account by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.