Far from an exception, 16 March marked the 100th time under the Fifth Republic that France’s president chose to use a special constitutional measure to force through unpopular measures.
With some “Gilet jaune” protestors calling for the removal of Emmanuel Macron, the French constitution is being criticized anew for concentrating too much power in the hands of the president.
François Hollande promised to make France’s youth a priority, but was a disappointment to them. While current candidates often showcase young supporters, will they have a voice after the election?
A candidate’s perceived Islamophobia may influence a French Muslim’s vote, but the impact of religious faith on political choice should not be overstated.
Christian Mouhanna, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines (UVSQ) – Université Paris-Saclay
Governments’ continual use of security forces to ‘keep order’ in low-income and minority neighborhoods masks their inability find solutions other than force.
While the French public comes to terms with a series of appalling attacks, politicians seize the opportunity to position themselves ahead of next year’s Presidential election.