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The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a attorney, was called as a testifier in the trial of ten people accused of internet-based abuse targeting Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Daily Life

She explained that the first lady now is always concerned about her appearance, from the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the apprehension that each snapshot may be distorted to fuel malicious comments.

"The result is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were more visible.

Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing the age gap with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

She, a family member from her mother's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Not a day passes when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, such as the kids hearing malicious statements like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is permanently facing these assaults."

Court Case Background

The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the baseless theory that she is male.

They have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander against a political commentator who amplified the theory.

The case states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is actually her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his social media shares were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant said he shared information since he thought it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has long been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, being two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met the future president when she was a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they married in that year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

She finished her testimony by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.