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Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—including the baseless theory that she was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

She, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying directed at her mother.

Consequences on Everyday Activities

She stated that her mother now worries constantly about how she looks, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph may be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, no matter what her actions in her daily life," Auzière informed the judges.

Those on Trial and Allegations

The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are in court for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent.

All is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. For some, this involved equating her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they could receive as much as 24 months in jail.

Family Impact

Auzière, a family member from her mother's first marriage, described how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her physical state" and a "worsening of her overall existence".

She testified, "Hardly a day passes when an individual does not talk the issue to her."

She emphasized the repercussions on her relatives, for example the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is lying" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to end it," she remarked. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue anything, and she is permanently facing these assaults."

Judicial Proceedings History

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

The Macrons have initiated a legal action in the United States for defamation involving a media personality who promoted the claim.

The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is completely false and notes that the person cited is in fact her brother.

Trial Testimonies

In court, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "did not mean to cause harm" and referred to his online statements as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his social media shares were meant to be "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant said he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The baseless rumor about Brigitte Macron's identity spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion online.

Brigitte Macron, aged 24 years older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when she was a teacher at his school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they married in 2007, subsequent to her divorce.

She concluded her testimony by saying that the false claims have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.