法国政治家和妥协的艺术

The French political landscape is currently facing a significant shift following the recent elections on July 7th, where the Extreme Right National Rally (RN) ended up third, despite leading the first round. The Left's New Front Popular (NFP), led by an alliance of parties including La France Insoumise, Socialist Party, Ecology Is Green and the Communist Party, secured the most seats in the new National Assembly. However, without an absolute majority, the NFP will need to master the art of compromise if it wishes to avoid a motion of no confidence in parliament.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the perpetual leader of La France Insoumise, plays a crucial role in this scenario. His non-democratic leadership style has forced key figures within his party to leave, such as François Ruffin and Alexis Corbière. Despite criticisms from these individuals, Mélenchon continues to assert that the NFP alliance will adhere strictly to their program, even if it means resorting to a decree.

The NFP's economic program carries a price tag of €150 billion, which faces significant challenges due to its potential impact on France's already growing external debt. This proposal could face resistance from business groups who might not appreciate a government more inclined towards taxing the wealthy or increasing public finance pressures.

The NFP's promise of sweeping changes may ultimately have to compromise with centrist MPs supporting President Emmanuel Macron, given the lack of clear majorities. Meanwhile, Macron's approach to international matters appears to be more assertive than ever, possibly resembling the style of General de Gaulle.

In the quest for the prime minister position, candidates will have to navigate a complex landscape, addressing the country's economic and social issues while dealing with international pressures. The RN, known for blaming immigrants and Islam for France's deterioration, might struggle to effectively address economic concerns within the NFP's program, which also lacks consideration of global economic factors like China, India, and Brazil.

Macron's international diplomacy has been robust, potentially overshadowing the country's traditional skepticism. However, all French politicians must learn to negotiate and present the truth about France's diminished political influence globally.

François Ruffin, a leader from the younger generation of left-wing leaders, highlighted that his colleagues in the NFP were presented with "one last opportunity." Whether the left-wing alliance and centrist groups, along with President Macron, can reinvent themselves in the coming weeks and months remains to be seen.