🔗 Share this article

The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that false claims online—including the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a attorney, was called as a witness in the trial of ten people allegedly involved in digital bullying against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Personal Routine

She explained that the first lady now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, from her attire to her posture, as a result of the apprehension that every photograph might be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she systematically needs to be careful to what she wears, her body language, irrespective of she's doing in day-to-day existence," she testified.

Defendants and Accusations

Ten individuals, in that age range, are on trial for internet-based bullying. A few had modest digital reach, while the rest were better known.

Each one is accused of spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

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

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, explained how the inaccurate allegations have caused a "decline of her physical state" and a "worsening of her quality of life".

She explained, "Hardly a day goes by when a person does not talk this to her."

Auzière pointed out the effects on the family, for example the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "Brigitte is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".

"She does not know how to end it," Auzière remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently experiencing this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a wider judicial fight targeting the baseless theory that she is a man.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States alleging slander against a conservative podcaster who amplified the theory.

The case states that the accusation is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is really Brigitte Macron's older brother.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, some of the accused denied the allegations.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and described his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer stated that his social media shares were intended as "humor" and expressed concern that the case could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual explained he shared information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The baseless rumor about the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has long been a topic of comment on the internet.

She, being significantly older than the president, initially encountered the future president when she was a educator at his secondary school.

Their relationship grew through drama activities, and they married in 2007, after her marriage dissolution.

Auzière finished her account by expressing that the false claims have produced a "whirlwind that never stops" for the first lady.