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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

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

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including her fashion choices to how she stands, due to the apprehension that every photograph might be distorted to fuel hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, irrespective of her actions in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Eight men and two women, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Several had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. Among them, this extended to linking the age gap with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

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

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

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

She emphasized the impact on her relatives, including her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is continually facing this abuse."

Court Case Context

The Paris trial is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the false claim that Brigitte Macron was a man.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a media personality who spread the theory.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, a few individuals denied the charges.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer claimed that his online activity were intended as "humor" and voiced worry that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• An art gallery owner said he shared posts because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction partly because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

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

Their relationship evolved through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in that year, after her separation.

She wrapped up her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.