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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—including the groundless claim that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the apprehension that every photograph might be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to her clothing, her posture, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had a small social media following, while several more were more visible.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this involved comparing her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.

If convicted, they could receive as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when someone fails to mention these claims to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on loved ones, including the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."

Court Case Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that the first lady was transgender.

They have pursued a US lawsuit over false statements involving a political commentator who spread the allegation.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants rejected the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner testified he posted information as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The baseless rumor about the first lady's sex gained traction in part because their union has often been a point of interest online.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when working as a educator at his secondary school.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in the following year, subsequent to her divorce.

Auzière concluded her account by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.