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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

She, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of a group of defendants accused of online harassment against her mother.

Consequences on Daily Life

She testified that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the fear that every photograph could be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, no matter what her actions in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had limited online influence, while the rest were more visible.

All is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. Among them, this involved linking the disparity in years with the French president to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in prison.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have caused a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when an individual avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on loved ones, such as the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," she testified. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue anything, and she is continually facing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case addressing the false claim that Brigitte Macron is a man.

They have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation against a political commentator who amplified the claim.

The case states that the allegation is completely false and notes that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, several defendants disputed the charges.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, claimed he "never intended to inflict damage" and described his online statements as humorous.
• A well-known publicist stated that his social media shares were meant to be "satire" and voiced worry that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he posted content because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's identity gained traction partly because their union has often been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, who is significantly older than the president, first met him when serving as a educator at his secondary school.

Their relationship developed through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after her divorce.

She finished her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.