Macron’s win showed France is internationalist, outward looking, pro-EU and free market-oriented; Le Pen’s rise revealed that it’s also nationalist, protectionist, anti-EU and suspicious of outsiders.
Being president of France won’t be easy for Emmanuel Macron. Without the support of an established political party, his legislative agenda may go nowhere fast.
The French must choose between two visions – one from Macron that looks externally to EU partners in trade and security, or one from Le Pen that closes France’s borders and yearns for a ‘Frexit’.
A new survey of French voters reveals a divide that predicts support for Le Pen. This same characteristic also explains Brexit and the election of Donald Trump.
It might look like an odd move, but quitting your party in the middle of a presidential election plays into a particular myth that might appeal to voters.
The first round of the presidential election has left French citizens and politicians divided – and the top candidates’ four-way split doesn’t favour governance of the country.
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?
Research Fellow at the University of the Free State, South Africa and Assistant Professor in the History of International Relations, Utrecht University
Professeure de management stratégique, directrice des programmes du MSc Arts & Creative Industries Management à Paris et de la partie française de l'Institut Franco-Chinois de Management des Arts et du Design à Shanghai, Kedge Business School