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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for digital bullying targeting the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She stated that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her attire to how she stands, due to the concern that every photograph may be misused to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, her body language, irrespective of her activities in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the disparity in years with her husband to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person does not talk the issue to her."

Auzière highlighted the repercussions on loved ones, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for any of this, and she is continually subjected to these attacks."

Legal Battle Background

This case represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight addressing the false claim that she is supposedly male.

The Macrons have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a political commentator who amplified the claim.

The case asserts that the accusation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

In court, several defendants rejected the accusations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as ironic.
• A fiction writer stated that his online activity were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "free speech".
• Another individual said he disseminated content as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated partly because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.

She, being 24 years older than her husband, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his school.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, after her marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.