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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—among them the unfounded rumor that she had a male birth identity—have severely damaged her mother's personal well-being.

She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants accused of internet-based abuse against Brigitte Macron.

Effects on Everyday Activities

Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her appearance, such as her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that each snapshot might be manipulated to fuel hateful attacks.

"The result is that she systematically needs to be careful to her outfits, how she holds herself, irrespective of her actions in everyday routine," she testified.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for digital abuse. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more visible.

All is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's personal life. Among them, this included comparing her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they may be sentenced to up to two years in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, a daughter from her mother's first marriage, described how the baseless rumors have led to a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her quality of life".

She said, "Not a day goes by when someone avoids discussing these claims to her."

She highlighted the effects on her relatives, including her grandchildren learning about false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She has no idea how to stop it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she never asked for anything, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks."

Legal Battle History

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a broader legal battle targeting the baseless theory that she is transgender.

They have pursued a legal action in the United States alleging slander involving a political commentator who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing states that the claim is totally unfounded and notes that the name mentioned is really her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

During the trial, a few individuals disputed the allegations.

• One defendant, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• Another defendant claimed that his social media shares were meant to be "humor" and voiced worry that the case could undermine "freedom of expression".
• A third defendant explained he disseminated content as he believed it was a global issue with "impact on the nation".

Past Context

The false theory regarding the first lady's sex circulated partly because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest on the internet.

She, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when working as a teacher at his secondary school.

Their relationship grew through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's divorce.

She concluded her testimony by expressing that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.