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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations online—among them the groundless claim that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants accused of online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Daily Life

She stated that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the concern that every photograph may be misused to support hateful attacks.

"The result is that she constantly has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Allegations

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved comparing her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in jail.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, stated how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Hardly a day passes when someone does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, such as the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She was born male".

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

Judicial Proceedings Background

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight targeting the baseless theory that she was a man.

The Macrons have pursued a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a media personality who promoted the theory.

The case states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is actually her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals disputed the charges.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as humorous.
• A well-known publicist argued that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he disseminated information because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's gender spread partly because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion online.

She, being significantly older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them developed through drama activities, and they married in the following year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her account by stating that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.