Inspired by François Mitterrand’s idea of a European confederation, French president Emmanuel Macron has outlined the idea of a political body that would be separate from the EU.
Despite a ‘major breach of trust,’ the recent spat between France and the US corresponds to a long cycle of conflict and rapprochement between the two countries.
Using the physical representation of a public figure to provoke an emotional response and encourage a certain action is a well-known strategy. Can it work for the COVID-19 vaccine?
The fire that devastated the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral on April 15 is a historic event that reminds us of the symbolic power of national monuments.
While the euro’s survival for two decades is evidence of its success, it was born with fundamental problems that have weakened it, leading to near-constant crisis.
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.
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’.
With its share of the vote rising with each election, can the extreme-right party take power on its own? The example of the French communists during the postwar boom suggests otherwise.
French and African presidents have, in the past, entertained close relationships outside official channels. These often included illegitimate exchanges. But there are signs that this is changing.
Secrétaire général adjoint au Centre franco-autrichien pour le rapprochement en Europe, directeur de l’Observatoire des Balkans à la Fondation Jean Jaurès, Centre international de formation européenne