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Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

She, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the trial of ten people facing charges for internet-based abuse directed at Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, from her attire to how she stands, as a result of the concern that each snapshot might be distorted to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in everyday routine," she testified.

Those on Trial and Accusations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while the rest were better known.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this included equating her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they face a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when an individual does not talk these claims to her."

Auzière pointed out the repercussions on the family, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to stop it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for any of this, and she is continually subjected to these attacks."

Legal Battle Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady is supposedly a man.

The couple have also filed a US lawsuit over false statements targeting a political commentator who amplified the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the accusation is completely false and points out that the person cited is actually her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, some of the accused disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• A fiction writer claimed that his online activity were presented as "satire" and expressed concern that the legal action could undermine "freedom of expression".
• Another individual said he disseminated posts as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's identity spread in part because their union has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.

She, being 24 years older than the president, initially encountered him when she was a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, following her divorce.

She concluded her statement by stating that the inaccurate allegations have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.