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Brigitte Macron's child, Tiphaine Auzière, has told a tribunal in Paris that misleading allegations circulating on the internet—among them the groundless claim that she had a male birth identity—have significantly harmed her mother's personal well-being.

Auzière, a 41-year-old lawyer, was called as a witness in the court case of ten people allegedly involved in internet-based abuse targeting the first lady.

Effects on Everyday Activities

She testified that Brigitte Macron now feels perpetual anxiety about her demeanor, such as her fashion choices to her posture, because of the concern that any image may be manipulated to fuel negative campaigns.

"The result is that she always has to pay attention to what she wears, her posture, regardless of she's doing in her daily life," Auzière told the court.

Defendants and Charges

Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are facing charges for digital abuse. Some had limited online influence, while others were more visible.

Each one is alleged to have making malicious comments about the first lady's personal life. For some, this included equating the disparity in years with her husband to inappropriate terms.

If found responsible, they could receive up to two years in jail.

Effect on Relatives

She, a family member from her mother's first marriage, explained how the baseless rumors have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her daily happiness".

She said, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person does not talk these claims to her."

She highlighted the effects on her relatives, including her grandchildren hearing false assertions like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is actually a man".

"She has no idea what to do about it," she stated. "She holds no office, she has not sought any of this, and she is permanently subjected to these attacks."

Judicial Proceedings Background

This case is part of an ongoing effort in a broader legal battle targeting the false claim that the first lady is male.

They have initiated a legal action in the United States for defamation against a media personality who spread the allegation.

The case asserts that the allegation is entirely inaccurate and points out that the person cited is really Brigitte Macron's brother.

Accused Individuals' Statements

In court, several defendants disputed the accusations.

• One defendant, holding a public position, stated he "did not mean to inflict damage" and described his posts as ironic.
• Another defendant argued that his posts were presented as "humor" and highlighted apprehension that the legal action could endanger "the right to speak freely".
• An art gallery owner testified he posted posts because he felt it was an international matter with "consequences for France".

Past Context

The baseless rumor about the first lady's identity spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has frequently been a subject of discussion online.

The first lady, being significantly older than Emmanuel Macron, first met him when serving as a instructor at his secondary school.

Their bond developed through drama activities, and they entered into marriage in that year, subsequent to her marriage dissolution.

Auzière finished her account by stating that the false claims have caused a "whirlwind that does not cease" for her mother.