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The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims online—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that any image might be distorted to advance hateful attacks.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.

Every defendant is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this extended to comparing her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

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

Family Impact

She, a daughter from her mother's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing the issue to her."

Auzière highlighted the repercussions on the family, for example her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she testified. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is constantly subjected to this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

This case represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady is male.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a media personality who amplified the claim.

The case clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, a few individuals denied the charges.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "never intended to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as humorous.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's identity circulated partly because their marriage has long been a subject of discussion on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, who is two decades older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they married in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She finished her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.