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The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the baseless theory that she is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the trial of ten people facing charges for digital bullying directed at her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

She testified that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, such as the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the fear that every photograph could be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, her posture, no matter what she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this involved linking her age difference with the French president to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the false claims have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Scarcely a day passes when an individual avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière pointed out the repercussions on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she never asked for public attention, and she is permanently subjected to this abuse."

Court Case History

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

The Macrons have pursued a case in America alleging slander involving a political commentator who promoted the allegation.

The case states that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the individual referenced is actually her older brother.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as humorous.
• A fiction writer argued that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner explained he posted posts since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The false theory regarding the first lady's gender gained traction to some extent because their union has long been a topic of comment online.

The first lady, who is 24 years older than the president, first met him when she was a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through drama activities, and they wed in 2007, subsequent to her separation.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that never stops" for the first lady.