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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, has told a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants accused of digital bullying directed at Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Daily Life

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, including her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that every photograph may be misused to fuel malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, regardless of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were more prominent.

All is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this extended to linking her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in prison.

Family Impact

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She said, "Not a day passes when someone does not talk the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the impact on her relatives, including her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is continually facing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that the first lady is male.

The Macrons have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a media personality who spread the allegation.

The case clarifies that the claim is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is really her brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants denied the charges.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his social media shares were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• A third defendant testified he posted content since he thought it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender spread in part because their union has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when working as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her account by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.