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The French first lady's child, her daughter, informed a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions spread through social media—such as the groundless claim that the French first lady is transgender—have significantly harmed her mother's quality of life.

She, a attorney, appeared as a witness in the legal proceedings of ten people accused of online harassment targeting her mother.

Consequences on Personal Routine

Auzière explained that the first lady now worries constantly about her demeanor, from her attire to how she stands, due to the apprehension that any image could be distorted to fuel malicious comments.

"The consequence is that she systematically has to pay attention to her outfits, how she holds herself, regardless of her actions in day-to-day existence," she told the court.

Those on Trial and Charges

Ten individuals, in that age range, are in court for internet-based bullying. Some had limited online influence, while others were better known.

Each one is charged with spreading defamatory content about the first lady's gender and sexuality. For some, this included comparing her age difference with her husband to inappropriate terms.

Upon being found guilty, they may be sentenced to as much as 24 months in prison.

Effect on Relatives

Auzière, one of three children from Brigitte Macron's initial union, described how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "worsening of her physical state" and a "deterioration of her overall existence".

She testified, "Not a day goes by when a person fails to mention this to her."

Auzière highlighted the repercussions on the family, including the younger generation learning about malicious statements like "Your grandmother is lying" or "She is your grandfather".

"She does not know how to stop it," she stated. "She's not elected, she didn't pursue public attention, and she is constantly facing these attacks."

Legal Battle Background

The legal proceedings represents a recent development in a extended court case targeting the inaccurate allegation that the first lady is supposedly transgender.

The couple have also filed a legal action in the United States for defamation targeting a political commentator who promoted the allegation.

The lawsuit asserts that the allegation is totally unfounded and identifies that the name mentioned is really her brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

During the trial, a few individuals denied the accusations.

• A retired business owner, serving as a local official, stated he "did not mean to inflict damage" and referred to his posts as satirical.
• A fiction writer claimed that his social media shares were intended as "irony" and voiced worry that the case could threaten "the right to speak freely".
• A third defendant explained he disseminated information because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The baseless rumor regarding the first lady's gender circulated in part because their union has long been a topic of comment on the internet.

The first lady, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, initially encountered Emmanuel Macron when serving as a teacher at his school.

Their relationship evolved through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in 2007, subsequent to her separation.

Auzière wrapped up her statement by stating that the baseless rumors have caused a "storm that continues endlessly" for her mother.