False Allegations on Social Media Damaged Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Tells Court

The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—such as the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals accused of digital bullying targeting her mother.

Effects on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to her posture, due to the concern that every photograph could be misused to fuel negative campaigns.

"The result is that she always needs to be careful to her clothing, her posture, irrespective of her actions in her daily life," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Several had a small social media following, while several more were better known.

All is alleged to have posting harmful statements about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to comparing the age gap with her husband to offensive labels.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to a maximum of two years in prison.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, described how the false claims have resulted in a "deterioration of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person avoids discussing the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, such as the kids learning about malicious statements like "She is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea how to stop it," she stated. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is constantly experiencing this abuse."

Legal Battle Context

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case addressing the baseless theory that she was a man.

The couple have pursued a case in America alleging slander targeting a media personality who promoted the theory.

The legal filing states that the accusation is completely false and identifies that the individual referenced is actually her older brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals rejected the allegations.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his social media content as satirical.
• A well-known publicist claimed that his online activity were presented as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant said he posted content because he felt it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's sex gained traction to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a topic of comment in digital spaces.

She, aged two decades older than her husband, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's separation.

She finished her account by stating that the false claims have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.