The recent parliamentary elections in France have resulted in a fragmented political landscape, with no single party securing an absolute majority. The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) emerged as the largest group, winning 184 seats out of 577, but still falling short of the 289 seats needed to form a majority. President Emmanuel Macron's centrist coalition 'Together for the Republic' secured 166 seats, while the far-right National Rally (RN) and its allies took third place with 143 seats.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, speaking from Washington during the NATO summit, commented on the situation, emphasizing that no party can claim victory. 'There were three sides: none of the three established themselves, none of the three are capable of governing alone. We'll see what happens,' Meloni stated. She noted the complexity of forming a government in such a divided parliament and reflected on Italy's own political stability compared to other European nations.
The Kremlin, through Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov, expressed its lack of optimism regarding the election outcome, citing the absence of political will to restore bilateral relations with Russia. Peskov highlighted the unpredictability of French voters' preferences and indicated that Moscow would closely monitor the formation of the new French government.
The NFP, a coalition comprising more than a dozen left-wing parties, including 'Unconquered France,' the Socialist Party, 'Public Place,' 'Environmentalists,' and the French Communist Party, has a diverse range of domestic and foreign policy positions. The coalition advocates for easing migrant entry rules, protecting minority rights, promoting environmental policies, and continuing support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing crisis.
Despite the NFP's significant gains, the coalition faces internal divisions, particularly on foreign policy issues. During the European Parliament elections, this division was evident when Manon Aubry from 'Unconquered France' advocated for de-escalation, while Raphael Glucksmann from 'Public Place' pushed for continued support for Ukraine until victory.
The election results have led to a call for Prime Minister Gabriel Attal's resignation, which President Macron has temporarily refused to ensure stability. Macron's decision to call early elections, aimed at clarifying the political situation, has instead resulted in further uncertainty, with no party achieving a clear mandate.
Marine Le Pen, leader of the RN, and her party have expressed dissatisfaction with the election outcome, despite doubling their number of deputies. Le Pen criticized the 'shameful alliance' between Macron and the left, which she claims has thrown France into the arms of the ultra-left. The RN's strong showing in the first round raised fears of a far-right government, but the final results have prevented this scenario.
The political deadlock in France comes at a critical time as the country prepares for the 2024 Olympic Games. The uncertainty over the formation of a stable government adds to the challenges, including environmental concerns like the high levels of E. Coli in the Seine River, which could affect swimming events.
As the political landscape remains uncertain, President Macron's next steps will be crucial in determining the direction of the French government. The possibility of a technical government or a coalition excluding extreme parties is being considered. The outcome of these decisions will shape France's political and social future in the coming years.
