Paris (DNA) – With the French National Assembly elections looming and the threat of a far-right victory, a new report from global governance researchers sheds light on the underlying issues that have led to this pivotal moment in French politics.
The snap elections, called by President Macron after his centrist party’s defeat in the European Parliament elections in May, have sparked concern throughout Europe. The unexpected success of Marine Le Pen’s far-right party, Rassemblement National (RN), in the first round of voting on June 30 has raised the possibility of a far-right government in France for the first time since World War II.
In an effort to prevent this outcome, many are now rallying behind a “Republican Front” to support Macron’s opponent, 28-year-old Jordan Bardella. However, according to the Berggruen Governance Index (BGI) report released by researchers from the Luskin School of Public Affairs at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), the Los Angeles-based Berggruen Institute, and the Hertie School in Berlin, this political crisis has been brewing for decades.
Titled “When the Center Cannot Hold: Governance Performance and Political Backlash in France”, the report highlights how France’s current turmoil is a result of long-standing issues that have been ignored for too long. Despite its high ranking on the 2024 BGI global assessment, which measures living standards, France is facing serious challenges that have led to a rise in right-wing support.
The report points to economic stagnation, inequality, and tensions around immigration as key factors fueling the popularity of the far-right. These challenges, if left unaddressed, could threaten France’s position as a well-governed nation.
While the report draws comparisons to similar developments in other European countries, it also highlights France’s unique struggles. The researchers note that regional issues, such as financial insecurity and the dominance of Paris, have contributed to increased support for the far-right, particularly among young people aged 18-25.
The report also draws attention to France’s tradition of protest, citing recent events such as the “yellow vest” movement and protests against Macron’s pension reforms. These protests show that the French people are not afraid to voice their dissatisfaction with the government, yet their calls for change have gone unanswered.
In order to prevent a far-right victory, the report states that the French government must address economic and social issues that have contributed to regional inequalities. This includes improving rural infrastructure and giving regions more decision-making autonomy.
In regards to immigration, the report emphasizes the need for social integration and increased employment opportunities for marginalized communities. The researchers also highlight the impact of industrial decline, which has led to concentrated job loss and exacerbated wealth inequality in France.
Even if the RN does not win the second round of voting on July 7, the report warns that France could still face political deadlock. This could have consequences beyond its borders, potentially affecting issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and decisions at the EU level.
However, the report’s authors stress that the longer-term concern for France is the growing inequality gap. They warn that unless action is taken to address these issues, the far-right will continue to thrive on economic insecurity and social resentment, without being able to provide solutions.
On July 7, French voters will have the opportunity to decide the fate of their country. The full report will be available online at https://governance.luskin.ucla.edu/publications-2/.
For more coverage on this topic, visit the DNA digital newsroom at https://www.presseportal.de/en/nr/174021.
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