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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—among them the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.

Impact on Everyday Activities

She testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, because of the fear that each snapshot might be misused to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in her daily life," she informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. 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. For some, this included equating the age gap with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

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

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Scarcely a day passes when someone does not talk this to her."

She pointed out the repercussions on the family, including the kids learning about false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She has no idea how to stop it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly facing these attacks."

Legal Battle History

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the false claim that the first lady is a man.

They have pursued a case in America for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing clarifies that the allegation is completely false and identifies that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, some of the accused denied the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his posts were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "free speech".
• An art gallery owner explained he posted posts since he thought it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory about the first lady's sex gained traction to some extent because their union has often been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when she was a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they married in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her account by saying that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.