🔗 Share this article False Allegations on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Daily Life, Daughter Testifies to the Tribunal The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, has told a judicial body in Paris that misleading allegations spread through social media—among them the groundless claim that she was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life. She, a legal professional, was called as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in digital bullying targeting the first lady. Effects on Personal Routine Auzière testified that her mother now is always concerned about her appearance, from her attire to how she stands, because of the concern that every photograph could be misused to fuel malicious comments. "The outcome is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, how she holds herself, regardless of she's doing in her daily life," she told the court. Defendants and Charges The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while several more were more prominent. Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this included equating her age difference with Emmanuel Macron to offensive labels. If found responsible, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration. Consequences for Loved Ones She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's previous marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "deterioration of her quality of life". She said, "Not a day passes when a person does not talk this to her." She emphasized the effects on loved ones, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is deceptive" 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 public attention, and she is permanently facing this abuse." Court Case Background This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the false claim that the first lady is supposedly a man. The Macrons have also filed a case in America over false statements involving a media personality who amplified the claim. The case clarifies that the accusation is totally unfounded and identifies that the person cited is in fact Brigitte Macron's brother. Trial Testimonies In court, some of the accused denied the charges. An individual, now a deputy mayor, stated he "had no purpose to inflict damage" and described his social media content as satirical. Another defendant argued that his online activity were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could threaten "freedom of expression". Another individual explained he posted information as he believed it was a worldwide topic with "consequences for France". Personal History The false theory regarding the first lady's gender circulated in part because their union has often been a point of interest on the internet. The first lady, who is 24 years older than her husband, first met the future president when serving as a instructor at his secondary school. Their bond evolved through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in the following year, following her divorce. She finished her testimony by saying that the baseless rumors have created a "whirlwind that does not cease" for the first lady.