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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a Paris court that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying against her mother.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

Auzière explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about how she looks, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that every photograph might be misused to fuel negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this involved comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

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

Effect on Relatives

She, a daughter from her mother's previous marriage, stated how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when a person does not talk this to her."

Auzière emphasized the impact on her relatives, for example her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is actually a man".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought public attention, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a wider judicial fight targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is male.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a media personality who amplified the claim.

The case clarifies that the allegation is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is in fact her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as satirical.
• A fiction writer argued that his posts were presented as "satire" and voiced worry that the trial could endanger "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he shared information as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Personal History

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than her husband, originally knew the future president when working as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they married in that year, after Brigitte Macron's separation.

She finished her statement by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.