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The French first lady's daughter, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims spread through social media—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence.

She, a legal professional, served as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in online harassment targeting her mother.

Effects on Daily Life

Auzière testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, including her attire to how she stands, as a result of the concern that every photograph may be manipulated to advance malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she always has to pay attention to her outfits, her posture, no matter what her activities in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Those on Trial and Allegations

Ten individuals, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for online harassment. A few had modest digital reach, while the rest were more prominent.

All is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's personal life. In certain cases, this involved equating the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to up to two years in incarceration.

Consequences for Loved Ones

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the false claims have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when someone fails to mention these claims to her."

She highlighted the effects on the family, for example the younger generation being exposed to false assertions like "She is not truthful" or "Your grandmother is your grandfather".

"She is unsure how to stop it," Auzière remarked. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently subjected to these assaults."

Legal Battle History

The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady was a man.

The Macrons have also filed a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a media personality who amplified the allegation.

The legal filing asserts that the accusation is entirely inaccurate and notes that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's sibling.

Defendants' Responses

Throughout the proceedings, a few individuals disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, now a deputy mayor, claimed he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and described his social media content as ironic.
• Another defendant stated that his posts were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could undermine "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant said he disseminated information as he believed it was an international matter with "implications for the country".

Relationship Background

The inaccurate claim regarding Brigitte Macron's identity circulated in part because the Macrons' relationship has long been a topic of comment online.

She, aged two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his school.

Their bond evolved through drama activities, and they wed in the following year, following Brigitte Macron's marriage dissolution.

Auzière finished her statement by expressing that the false claims have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for the first lady.