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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals accused of online harassment targeting the first lady.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the concern that any image might be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, no matter what she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were better known.

Every defendant is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's identity. For some, this extended to linking the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

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

Effect on Relatives

She, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "worsening of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Not a day passes when a person fails to mention these claims to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, including the younger generation hearing malicious statements like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Legal Battle History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a extended court case addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady was transgender.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing asserts that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Trial Testimonies

During the trial, a few individuals rejected the charges.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as satirical.
• Another defendant stated that his social media shares were presented as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "free speech".
• Another individual testified he disseminated content because he felt it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their union has long been a point of interest on the internet.

The first lady, aged 24 years older than the president, first met the future president when she was a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship developed through theatrical projects, and they married in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's divorce.

Auzière wrapped up her testimony by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.