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Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions online—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady was born a man—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a attorney, appeared as a testifier in the trial of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

She testified that her mother now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her fashion choices to how she stands, because of the apprehension that any image could be distorted to advance negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Accused Individuals and Accusations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had a small social media following, while several more were better known.

Every defendant is alleged to have posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. In certain cases, this involved equating the age gap with the French president to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

She, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She explained, "Not a day goes by when an individual does not talk the issue to her."

Auzière highlighted the impact on the family, for example the younger generation hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She does not know what to do about it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is constantly facing this abuse."

Court Case History

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that the first lady was male.

They have also filed a legal action in the United States over false statements targeting a media personality who promoted the theory.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, some of the accused disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were intended as "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the trial could undermine "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner said he posted content since he thought it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The inaccurate claim regarding the first lady's identity circulated in part because their union has long been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, being significantly older than the president, originally knew him when serving as a instructor at the institution he attended.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in that year, subsequent to her divorce.

Auzière wrapped up her account by stating that the inaccurate allegations have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.