🔗 Share this article Inaccurate Claims on Social Media Harmed Brigitte Macron's Well-being, Child Testifies to Court Brigitte Macron's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—among them the unfounded rumor that the French first lady had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's daily existence. She, a 41-year-old lawyer, appeared as a testifier in the court case of 10 individuals facing charges for internet-based abuse directed at the first lady. Effects on Daily Life Auzière stated that Brigitte Macron now worries constantly about her demeanor, including the clothes she wears to her posture, because of the apprehension that each snapshot may be manipulated to support hateful attacks. "The result is that she systematically has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, no matter what her actions in everyday routine," Auzière testified. Those on Trial and Accusations Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. Some had modest digital reach, while others were more prominent. All is accused of making malicious comments about the first lady's identity. For some, this involved comparing the disparity in years with Emmanuel Macron to hurtful comparisons. If found responsible, they face up to two years in jail. Family Impact She, a family member from Brigitte Macron's initial union, stated how the false claims have caused a "decline of her health" and a "worsening of her overall existence". She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person avoids discussing this to her." She emphasized the effects on the family, such as her grandchildren learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is deceptive" or "She is your grandfather". "She does not know what to do about it," she testified. "She holds no office, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is constantly experiencing these attacks." Judicial Proceedings Background This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle addressing the inaccurate allegation that she was male. They have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a political commentator who spread the claim. The legal filing asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is in fact her brother. Accused Individuals' Statements In court, several defendants rejected the charges. A retired business owner, holding a public position, stated he "had no purpose to cause harm" and referred to his posts as satirical. Another defendant argued that his online activity were meant to be "humor" and voiced worry that the legal action could undermine "freedom of expression". Another individual said he posted information as he believed it was a global issue with "implications for the country". Personal History The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's identity spread partly because the Macrons' relationship has long been a subject of discussion online. The first lady, who is significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at the institution he attended. Their bond developed through the school's theatre programme, and they wed in the following year, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation. She finished her account by saying that the baseless rumors have produced a "storm that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.