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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants facing charges for internet-based abuse targeting her mother.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, from her attire to her posture, due to the apprehension that every photograph could be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for online harassment. A few had limited online influence, while the rest were more visible.

All is accused of spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included linking the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Family Impact

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the false claims have led to a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Hardly a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on the family, including the kids hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight against the false claim that she was male.

The couple have also filed a US lawsuit for defamation against a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

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

Trial Testimonies

In court, some of the accused rejected the accusations.

• An individual, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were intended as "humor" and voiced worry that the legal action could undermine "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner said he disseminated posts because he felt it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's gender gained traction to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew him when she was a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in that year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.