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The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

Auzière stated that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her attire to how she stands, due to the fear that any image could be manipulated to support negative campaigns.

"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had limited online influence, while several more were better known.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this involved equating her age difference with her husband to offensive labels.

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

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Not a day passes when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."

She highlighted the impact on her relatives, for example her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she remarked. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."

Court Case Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that she is a man.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused rejected the charges.

• An individual, serving as a local official, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his online activity were intended as "satire" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "free speech".
• An art gallery owner explained he disseminated posts since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's gender spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest online.

She, being two decades older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at his school.

Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, after her marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.