🔗 Share this article False Allegations Online Harmed Brigitte Macron's Quality of Life, Child Testifies to Court The French first lady's child, her daughter, testified to a judicial body in Paris that inaccurate assertions circulating on the internet—including the baseless theory that she had a male birth identity—have negatively impacted her mother's personal well-being. She, a legal professional, was called as a witness in the court case of 10 individuals allegedly involved in internet-based abuse against the first lady. Effects on Daily Life She testified that Brigitte Macron now is always concerned about how she looks, including the clothes she wears to the way she carries herself, as a result of the concern that every photograph might be distorted to support hateful attacks. "The result is that she constantly has to pay attention to her clothing, how she holds herself, no matter what her activities in everyday routine," she informed the judges. Those on Trial and Allegations Ten individuals, aged 41 to 60, are on trial for online harassment. Several had a small social media following, while others were better known. Each one is accused of spreading defamatory content about Brigitte Macron's identity. In certain cases, this included equating her age difference with the French president to inappropriate terms. If convicted, they could receive a maximum of two years in prison. Family Impact She, one of three children from her mother's first marriage, described how the inaccurate allegations have resulted in a "decline of her well-being" and a "worsening of her quality of life". She explained, "Scarcely a day goes by when a person fails to mention the issue to her." She pointed out the effects on loved ones, for example the younger generation being exposed to hurtful comments like "Your grandmother is not truthful" or "She is your grandfather". "She does not know how to end it," she stated. "She's not elected, she has not sought anything, and she is continually facing these assaults." Legal Battle History This case is the latest phase in a extended court case against the baseless theory that she was transgender. The couple have initiated a US lawsuit for defamation targeting a political commentator who amplified the allegation. The case states that the claim is completely false and notes that the person cited is in fact her older brother. Trial Testimonies In court, several defendants denied the allegations. A retired business owner, serving as a local official, claimed he "had no purpose to hurt anyone" and referred to his social media content as satirical. Another defendant argued that his online activity were meant to be "satire" and highlighted apprehension that the case could undermine "freedom of expression". A third defendant said he disseminated content as he believed it was an international matter with "impact on the nation". Past Context The inaccurate claim about Brigitte Macron's sex spread in part because the Macrons' relationship has often been a topic of comment online. The first lady, who is two decades older than the president, initially encountered him when she was a teacher at the institution he attended. Their relationship developed through drama activities, and they married in 2007, subsequent to Brigitte Macron's separation. She finished her account by expressing that the false claims have created a "chaos that continues endlessly" for Brigitte Macron.