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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a testifier in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in online harassment targeting her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

Auzière stated that her mother now worries constantly about how she looks, from her fashion choices to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot could be misused to fuel malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while several more were more visible.

All is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison.

Family Impact

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, described how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when a person avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is permanently facing these assaults."

Legal Battle Background

The legal proceedings is the latest phase in a broader legal battle targeting the inaccurate allegation that she is supposedly male.

They have also filed a case in America alleging slander against a conservative podcaster who spread the claim.

The lawsuit states that the claim is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is really her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

In court, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as humorous.
• Another defendant claimed that his online activity were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• Another individual testified he posted posts as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity gained traction in part because their marriage has long been a topic of comment online.

She, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered him when working as a educator at his school.

Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following her marriage dissolution.

She finished her account by saying that the false claims have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.