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Brigitte Macron's daughter, her daughter, informed a tribunal in Paris that false claims circulating on the internet—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have severely damaged her mother's quality of life.

She, a attorney, was called as a witness in the court case of a group of defendants allegedly involved in online harassment targeting the first lady.

Impact on Personal Routine

She stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, including her attire to how she stands, due to the apprehension that any image might be manipulated to advance negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly must be cautious to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her activities in everyday routine," Auzière told the court.

Accused Individuals and Allegations

The defendants, aged 41 to 60, are in court for internet-based bullying. Several had modest digital reach, while several more were more visible.

Each one is charged with posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. Among them, this included linking her age difference with her husband to hurtful comparisons.

Upon being found guilty, they face as much as 24 months in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from her mother's initial union, explained how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her well-being" and a "decline of her overall existence".

She testified, "Scarcely a day goes by when an individual does not talk this to her."

She highlighted the effects on loved ones, such as the kids hearing hurtful comments like "She is not truthful" or "She was born male".

"She is unsure how to end it," she testified. "She holds no office, she never asked for public attention, and she is constantly facing these assaults."

Court Case Context

The Paris trial is the latest phase in a broader legal battle against the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron was transgender.

They have initiated a case in America for defamation targeting a political commentator who promoted the claim.

The lawsuit asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and notes that the name mentioned is in fact her sibling.

Defendants' Responses

In court, several defendants rejected the allegations.

• An individual, now a deputy mayor, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as humorous.
• A fiction writer stated that his posts were intended as "irony" and highlighted apprehension that the case could endanger "free speech".
• An art gallery owner testified he disseminated information as he believed it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The baseless rumor concerning the first lady's identity gained traction in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a point of interest in digital spaces.

The first lady, being significantly older than her husband, originally knew Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his school.

The connection between them developed through theatrical projects, and they married in the following year, subsequent to her divorce.

She finished her testimony by stating that the false claims have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.