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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—among them the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of online harassment directed at her mother.

Impact on Personal Routine

Auzière stated that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, from the clothes she wears to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image could be distorted to support negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, regardless of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this included equating the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

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

Effect on Relatives

She, a family member from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual fails to mention this to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She is unsure what to do about it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings History

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a extended court case against the baseless theory that the first lady is transgender.

The Macrons have also filed a US lawsuit over false statements involving a media personality who spread the claim.

The case clarifies that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the charges.

• An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist argued that his posts were presented as "humor" and expressed concern that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner said he disseminated posts because he felt it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's gender spread in part because their marriage has often been a topic of comment online.

Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than her husband, first met the future president when she was a teacher at his school.

The connection between them evolved through drama activities, and they married in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She finished her statement by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that does not cease" for the first lady.