🔗 Share this article

The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that she was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's daily existence.

Auzière, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals accused of online harassment directed at Brigitte Macron.

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière testified that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, such as the clothes she wears to how she stands, because of the concern that any image may be misused to support malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she constantly needs to be careful to her outfits, her posture, irrespective of she's doing in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.

Defendants and Accusations

Eight men and two women, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while others were better known.

Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about Brigitte Macron's personal life. In certain cases, this involved equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

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

Family Impact

She, one of three children from her mother's initial union, described how the false claims have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

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

She highlighted the impact on her relatives, such as her grandchildren hearing hurtful comments like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "She is actually a man".

"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is continually subjected to these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the false claim that she was transgender.

The couple have initiated a case in America over false statements against a media personality who spread the allegation.

The case states that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to cause harm" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "freedom of expression".
• An art gallery owner testified he disseminated content because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The false theory concerning Brigitte Macron's gender spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a point of interest on the internet.

She, aged 24 years older than her husband, first met Emmanuel Macron when working as a educator at the institution he attended.

Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they wed in 2007, following her separation.

Auzière concluded her testimony by expressing that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "storm that does not cease" for her mother.