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The French first lady's child, Tiphaine Auzière, informed a Paris court that false claims online—among them the baseless theory that the French first lady is transgender—have negatively impacted her mother's quality of life.

She, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for online harassment against the first lady.

Effects on Daily Life

She testified that her mother now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as her attire to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that every photograph may be distorted to support negative campaigns.

"The consequence is that she constantly needs to be careful to what she wears, her body language, irrespective of her activities in everyday routine," she testified.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are in court for digital abuse. A few had modest digital reach, while others were better known.

Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's gender and sexuality. In certain cases, this extended to linking the disparity in years with the French president to inappropriate terms.

If convicted, they could receive up to two years in incarceration.

Effect on Relatives

She, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's first marriage, stated how the inaccurate allegations have led to a "worsening of her health" and a "decline of her overall existence".

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

Auzière pointed out the impact on the family, including the kids being exposed to false assertions like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male".

"She does not know what to do about it," Auzière stated. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue any of this, and she is continually experiencing this abuse."

Court Case Background

This case represents a recent development in a extended court case against the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is transgender.

The couple have pursued a case in America over false statements against a media personality who spread the theory.

The legal filing asserts that the claim is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is actually her sibling.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, some of the accused disputed the charges.

• A retired business owner, holding a public position, asserted he "did not mean to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as humorous.
• Another defendant claimed that his online activity were presented as "irony" and expressed concern that the legal action could endanger "free speech".
• Another individual testified he posted content because he felt it was a global issue with "consequences for France".

Personal History

The baseless rumor about the first lady's gender gained traction partly because their marriage has often been a subject of discussion on the internet.

The first lady, who is two decades older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered the future president when serving as a educator at the institution he attended.

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

She finished her testimony by stating that the inaccurate allegations have produced a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.