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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment directed at the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

She stated that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to how she stands, due to the fear that any image may be manipulated to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her body language, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Charges

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while others were better known.

Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this included equating her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

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

She testified, "Not a day goes by when an individual fails to mention these claims to her."

She highlighted the repercussions on the family, including the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She does not know how to stop it," she testified. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."

Legal Battle Context

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is supposedly transgender.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation against a conservative podcaster who amplified the claim.

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

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
• A fiction writer argued that his posts were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the case could endanger "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant said he shared content since he thought it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The false theory about Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when working as a educator at the institution he attended.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they married in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.