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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, testified to a tribunal in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—including the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, as a result of the fear that any image could be manipulated to fuel malicious comments.

"The result is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, her body language, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Accused Individuals and Charges

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this involved comparing the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.

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

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when someone avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on her relatives, for example the younger generation hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to stop it," she testified. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Court Case History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case addressing the false claim that the first lady is male.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a media personality who promoted the allegation.

The case asserts that the allegation is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, a few individuals rejected the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his posts as ironic.
• A fiction writer argued that his online activity were presented as "humor" and expressed concern that the trial could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual testified he disseminated information as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The false theory about the first lady's gender spread to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when she was a teacher at his school.

The connection between them grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, after her divorce.

She concluded her account by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.