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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—among them the groundless claim that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

She testified that the first lady now is always concerned about her appearance, such as her attire to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image could be misused to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," she testified.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while others were more visible.

Each one is accused of making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. For some, this involved linking the age gap with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

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

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

She pointed out the impact on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "She is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to end it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly experiencing these assaults."

Legal Battle Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is male.

They have also filed a US lawsuit alleging slander involving a conservative podcaster who promoted the claim.

The lawsuit states that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is actually Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the allegations.

• An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A well-known publicist argued that his posts were meant to be "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant testified he disseminated information as he believed it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, aged significantly older than her husband, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, following Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She concluded her statement by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have created a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.