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Brigitte Macron's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that she was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the trial of ten people facing charges for digital bullying targeting the first lady.

Impact on Daily Life

Auzière explained that the first lady now is always concerned about her appearance, including her attire to how she stands, because of the concern that each snapshot may be manipulated to support hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she systematically must be cautious to her clothing, her posture, regardless of she's doing in everyday routine," Auzière testified.

Those on Trial and Charges

Eight men and two women, between 41 and 60 years old, are facing charges for digital abuse. A few had a small social media following, while others were better known.

All is charged with making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved linking the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons.

If found responsible, they face a maximum of two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Not a day passes when a person avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on her relatives, including her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "She is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for any of this, and she is permanently experiencing these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is the latest phase in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that she was male.

The couple have also filed a case in America over false statements involving a media personality who spread the theory.

The legal filing clarifies that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the individual referenced is in fact her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, several defendants denied the charges.

• An individual, serving as a local official, stated he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant claimed that his online activity were intended as "humor" and voiced worry that the trial could threaten "free speech".
• An art gallery owner said he disseminated content as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning the first lady's sex gained traction in part because their marriage has often been a point of interest in digital spaces.

She, who is 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a teacher at the institution he attended.

Their bond grew through the school's theatre programme, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.

She wrapped up her account by stating that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for the first lady.