🔗 Share this article False Allegations on the Internet Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Daughter Informs Court The French first lady's daughter, her daughter, informed a Paris court that false claims circulating on the internet—including the groundless claim that the French first lady was born a man—have significantly harmed her mother's daily existence. She, a legal professional, served as a witness in the court case of ten people facing charges for digital bullying directed at her mother. Effects on Daily Life She explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her appearance, from her fashion choices to the way she carries herself, as a result of the fear that any image might be manipulated to fuel malicious comments. "The consequence is that she always needs to be careful to what she wears, how she holds herself, no matter what she's doing in day-to-day existence," Auzière informed the judges. Those on Trial and Allegations The defendants, between 41 and 60 years old, are on trial for internet-based bullying. A few had a small social media following, while the rest were better known. Every defendant is accused of posting harmful statements about the first lady's identity. For some, this involved equating the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons. Upon being found guilty, they could receive up to two years in incarceration. Family Impact She, a daughter from her mother's initial union, stated how the baseless rumors have led to a "deterioration of her well-being" and a "decline of her quality of life". She said, "Not a day passes when an individual fails to mention these claims to her." Auzière pointed out the impact on loved ones, for example her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "Brigitte is deceptive" or "Your grandmother was born male". "She is unsure what to do about it," she remarked. "She didn't run for election, she has not sought anything, and she is permanently facing these assaults." Court Case History The legal proceedings is part of an ongoing effort in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that Brigitte Macron is a man. They have pursued a US lawsuit alleging slander targeting a media personality who amplified the claim. The lawsuit clarifies that the accusation is completely false and identifies that the name mentioned is actually Brigitte Macron's brother. Defendants' Responses During the trial, a few individuals disputed the charges. An individual, holding a public position, claimed he "never intended to hurt anyone" and referred to his posts as ironic. A fiction writer stated that his posts were meant to be "irony" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "free speech". Another individual testified he posted content because he felt it was a worldwide topic with "impact on the nation". Past Context The false theory about the first lady's gender circulated to some extent because their union has long been a point of interest online. The first lady, aged two decades older than the president, first met Emmanuel Macron when serving as a instructor at his school. Their bond developed through theatrical projects, and they entered into marriage in 2007, after Brigitte Macron's separation. Auzière wrapped up her statement by expressing that the false claims have caused a "storm that does not cease" for Brigitte Macron.