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The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the groundless claim that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a attorney, served as a witness in the court case of ten people facing charges for digital bullying against the first lady.

Consequences on Daily Life

She explained that the first lady now is always concerned about her demeanor, including her attire to how she stands, because of the fear that every photograph could be misused to support negative campaigns.

"The outcome is that she always needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, no matter what her actions in day-to-day existence," she informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for online harassment. Several had limited online influence, while the rest were more prominent.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included equating her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".

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

Auzière emphasized the effects on the family, including the kids being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to end it," Auzière testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is continually experiencing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is a man.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.

The case clarifies that the claim is completely false and identifies that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the legal action could threaten "free speech".
• A third defendant said he shared information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.

She, being 24 years older than the president, initially encountered the future president when working as a teacher at his school.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they wed in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

She concluded her account by expressing that the false claims have produced a "chaos that does not cease" for the first lady.