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The French first lady's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that inaccurate assertions online—among them the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals facing charges for digital bullying targeting Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the concern that every photograph could be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she constantly has to pay attention to her outfits, her body language, regardless of her activities in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. Among them, this extended to comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they face as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "worsening of her health" and a "decline of her quality of life".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person does not talk the issue to her."

She emphasized the effects on loved ones, such as the kids learning about hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Context

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that she was transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.

The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is really her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, some of the accused disputed the allegations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his posts were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• A third defendant testified he disseminated posts as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Relationship Background

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's identity spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, aged two decades older than the president, initially encountered him when working as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they married in the following year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.

Auzière concluded her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.