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Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for digital bullying directed at the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She stated that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about her appearance, including her attire to how she stands, as a result of the concern that every photograph may be misused to advance negative campaigns.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," she informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Eight men and two women, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more visible.

All is alleged to have spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this extended to equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière emphasized the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation hearing false assertions like "Brigitte is lying" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is permanently subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Context

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

The Macrons have pursued a legal action in the United States over false statements involving a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

The case states that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the individual referenced is in fact Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused denied the charges.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as humorous.
• A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and expressed concern that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant explained he disseminated information since he thought it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The false theory concerning the first lady's gender spread to some extent because their marriage has often been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, being significantly older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a educator at his secondary school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, after her divorce.

Auzière concluded her testimony by stating that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.