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Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, testified to a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations online—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in online harassment against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She explained that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about how she looks, from her attire to how she stands, due to the apprehension that every photograph may be misused to advance malicious comments.

"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her clothing, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," she testified.

Accused Individuals and Charges

The defendants, in that age range, are on trial for online harassment. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were more prominent.

Each one is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this included comparing her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual avoids discussing this to her."

Auzière pointed out the repercussions on loved ones, including her grandchildren being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".

"She is unsure what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She didn't run for election, she never asked for anything, and she is permanently facing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings Background

The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight addressing the baseless theory that Brigitte Macron is a man.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a conservative podcaster who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing states that the allegation is totally unfounded and points out that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his online statements as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his online activity were intended as "humor" and expressed concern that the trial could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual explained he posted posts as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The inaccurate claim concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated in part because their union has frequently been a point of interest online.

She, aged 24 years older than the president, initially encountered him when working as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, after her separation.

She concluded her account by expressing that the baseless rumors have produced a "chaos that continues endlessly" for her mother.