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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the unfounded rumor that she is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, served as a witness in the trial of a group of defendants allegedly involved in internet-based abuse directed at the first lady.

Consequences on Daily Life

Auzière stated that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that any image could be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The result is that she systematically must be cautious to what she wears, her body language, regardless of her activities in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Some had modest digital reach, while several more were more prominent.

Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this involved linking the age gap with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in jail.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have led to a "decline of her physical state" and a "decline of her daily happiness".

She said, "Not a day passes when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the impact on loved ones, for example her grandchildren learning about hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Court Case Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that the first lady was a man.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a political commentator who promoted the theory.

The case states that the claim is completely false and notes that the individual referenced is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Trial Testimonies

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals denied the accusations.

• An individual, holding a public position, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• A well-known publicist argued that his posts were intended as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• Another individual explained he posted posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "implications for the country".

Personal History

The false theory regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has long been a subject of discussion in digital spaces.

Brigitte Macron, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when she was a educator at his school.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in that year, after her divorce.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "whirlwind that never stops" for her mother.