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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying targeting the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that the first lady now is always concerned about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to support hateful attacks.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of her activities in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

Every defendant is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this involved linking her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they face as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "decline of her health" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

She pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation learning about hurtful comments like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to end it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought anything, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Court Case History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle against the baseless theory that the first lady is transgender.

The couple have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

The lawsuit clarifies that the claim is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his posts as ironic.
• A fiction writer stated that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• Another individual explained he shared information as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor about the first lady's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when working as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She finished her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.