🔗 Share this article

Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, has told a Paris court that false claims spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a legal professional, served as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment directed at her mother.

Impact on Everyday Activities

Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about her demeanor, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, because of the apprehension that every photograph might be misused to support hateful attacks.

"The outcome is that she always must be cautious to her outfits, her posture, no matter what she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière testified.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for internet-based bullying. Several had limited online influence, while others were better known.

Every defendant is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's gender and sexuality. Among them, this involved equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels.

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

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, a family member from her mother's initial union, described how the false claims have led to a "decline of her health" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She said, "Not a day passes when an individual avoids discussing these claims to her."

She highlighted the effects on the family, including the kids being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She does not know how to end it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought public attention, and she is constantly subjected to this abuse."

Judicial Proceedings History

This case is the latest phase in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States alleging slander targeting a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The lawsuit states that the accusation is completely false and points out that the name mentioned is in fact her older brother.

Defendants' Responses

In court, several defendants disputed the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, asserted he "never intended to hurt anyone" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant stated that his social media shares were intended as "humor" and expressed concern that the case could threaten "free speech".
• Another individual testified he disseminated information since he thought it was an international matter with "impact on the nation".

Relationship Background

The baseless rumor concerning Brigitte Macron's sex circulated to some extent because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion on the internet.

Brigitte Macron, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a educator at the institution he attended.

Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they married in the following year, following her marriage dissolution.

She finished her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that continues endlessly" for her mother.