Bruno Le Maire Faces Hostile Reception as He Transitions to Academia in Switzerland
Bruno Le Maire, the former French Minister of Economy and Finance, is set to begin his new role as a guest professor at the University of Lausanne on September 23. However, his arrival has been met with significant backlash, as graffiti targeting him has appeared on campus walls, expressing sentiments such as "Bruno, get lost!" and "Bruno, Marxist of the rich." These messages reflect widespread discontent with his political legacy and recent literary endeavors, notably his erotic book "American Fugue."
The graffiti has sparked controversy and prompted the University of Lausanne to confirm that they will file a complaint regarding the vandalism. Despite the hostile environment, Le Maire has expressed excitement about returning to academia, stating, "I am happy to return to the path of lessons, this time on economic and geopolitical subjects."
Academic Responsibilities at the University of Lausanne
In his new position, Le Maire will teach courses on public policy and geopolitics at the Enterprise for Society Center (E4S) at the University of Lausanne. His responsibilities include contributing to the course on "Technology, Sustainability and Public Policy" and teaching within the HEC Lausanne Bachelor's program and the IMD MBA program. He aims to leverage his experience in managing issues related to decarbonization and clean energy to enrich the academic discourse at the institution.
Le Maire's transition from a high-profile political role to academia raises questions about how students will receive his teachings, especially in light of the recent graffiti protests. He has emphasized the importance of engaging with new generations to address pressing global challenges, including economic inequalities and energy transition.
A Controversial Legacy and Future Prospects
Bruno Le Maire's tenure at Bercy has been marked by significant economic decisions and policies that have polarized opinions. His recent literary work has further fueled criticism, with detractors questioning his qualifications to teach in a serious academic setting. As he embarks on this new chapter, the reception from students and faculty alike remains uncertain. The university community's reaction to his teaching will likely shape his future in academia and may influence his broader reputation in France and beyond.
