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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a Paris court that false claims online—among them the groundless claim that Brigitte Macron is transgender—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a legal professional, appeared as a witness in the trial of 10 individuals accused of internet-based abuse directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She explained that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, such as her attire to how she stands, because of the concern that every photograph may be distorted to advance malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her actions in everyday routine," she informed the judges.

Defendants and Charges

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for online harassment. Some had limited online influence, while several more were more prominent.

Every defendant is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included equating her age difference with the French president to offensive labels.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.

Family Impact

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on her relatives, for example the younger generation being exposed to malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She was born male".

"She has no idea how to end it," Auzière testified. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly subjected to these assaults."

Court Case Context

The Paris trial represents a recent development in a broader legal battle against the false claim that she is transgender.

The Macrons have also filed a case in America over false statements against a conservative podcaster who spread the allegation.

The case clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is really her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, several defendants denied the accusations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant stated that his posts were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could threaten "free speech".
• An art gallery owner explained he shared content as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country".

Past Context

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because their union has frequently been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, being 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew the future president when she was a instructor at his school.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they married in that year, after Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière wrapped up her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "chaos that never stops" for her mother.