The Rise of the Right: The End of Macron’s "En Marche" Doctrine
The French political landscape is witnessing a resurgence of the right, calling into question Emmanuel Macron’s "dépassement" (transcendence) strategy. The upcoming contest between Laurent Wauquiez and Bruno Retailleau, both staunchly identifying as right-wing, points to a shift in the political spectrum. The popularity of Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin reflects a significant "rightward" drift in the country. Qualitative surveys accompanying opinion polls reveal a sentiment of "pride" among this electorate, which has endured electoral setbacks for years.
This political shift extends beyond the traditional boundaries of the Républicains party. It is equally evident in the evolution of the two opposing forces that emerged from the decline of Nicolas Sarkozy’s former party: the Rassemblement National (formerly Front National) on the extreme right and the "centrist bloc" on the more moderate side. The second rounds of the last two presidential elections have pitted Macron against Marine Le Pen, both of whom believed they had neutralized the far right and the far left, respectively.
However, the resilience of these extremes and the rise of the right within the Républicains party suggest otherwise. This resurgence is driven by a range of factors, including:
- Economic anxiety: The perceived decline of the French economy and a sense of economic injustice have created a fertile ground for right-wing populist rhetoric, which often scapegoats immigrants and minorities.
- Cultural identity: Right-wing parties have capitalized on concerns about national identity and traditional values, tapping into fears of cultural dilution and social change.
- Security concerns: Terrorism and rising crime rates have heightened anxieties about public safety, which have been exploited by right-wing politicians who portray themselves as the guardians of order.
- Anti-establishment sentiment: The growing distrust of traditional political elites has led to a surge in support for outsider candidates and anti-establishment parties, many of which are on the right.
The right-wing resurgence in France has far-reaching implications for Macron’s presidency and the future of French politics. It challenges his strategy of transcending traditional left-right divisions and governing from a centrist position. The rise of the right also raises questions about the viability of the centrist bloc, which has been weakened by Macron’s policies and the appeal of populist alternatives.
Moreover, the polarization of French politics along left-right lines could have negative consequences for national unity and social cohesion. It could deepen societal divisions, increase political instability, and hamper efforts to address complex challenges facing the country.
The return of the right in France is a reminder that the political pendulum can swing swiftly. It underscores the importance of addressing the underlying factors that have fueled this shift, such as economic inequality, social anxieties, and concerns about national identity. Only by addressing these root causes can France avoid the pitfalls of extremism and ensure a more inclusive and equitable society.
