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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that false claims spread through social media—including the unfounded rumor that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people facing charges for internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, from her attire to her posture, because of the apprehension that each snapshot might be manipulated to support hateful attacks.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, no matter what her activities in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. A few had limited online influence, while the rest were better known.

Every defendant is charged with making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this extended to linking her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She testified, "Hardly a day goes by when someone fails to mention these claims to her."

Auzière emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually experiencing these attacks."

Court Case Context

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that the first lady was transgender.

The Macrons have also filed a case in America alleging slander involving a media personality who spread the theory.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, several defendants disputed the allegations.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his online statements as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his posts were presented as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant said he disseminated content because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim regarding the first lady's identity gained traction to some extent because their union has long been a topic of comment online.

She, aged significantly older than her husband, first met the future president when she was a educator at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière concluded her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "storm that never stops" for her mother.