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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—such as the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, due to the apprehension that each snapshot might be misused to fuel malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in her daily life," she testified.

Defendants and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved equating the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual does not talk the issue to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on loved ones, including the kids learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for any of this, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight targeting the false claim that she was transgender.

The Macrons have pursued a case in America for defamation involving a media personality who promoted the theory.

The legal filing states that the claim is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is actually her sibling.

Trial Testimonies

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as humorous.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner testified he shared information since he thought it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

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

She, aged significantly older than her husband, first met him when working as a educator at his school.

Their bond evolved through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière finished her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.