Latest editorial
Michel Barnier, supporter of conservative presidential candidate Valerie Pecresse speaks during a campaign rally on February 13, 2022 in Paris
FRENCH left parties today rejected the appointment of former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as the country’s new prime minister and called for nationwide protests.
The appointment of Mr Barnier follows weeks of stalling by President Emmanuel Macron to find an alternative candidate to one put forward by the left-wing New Popular Front (NPF) coalition, which won the most seats in July’s National Assembly election.
The NPF had nominated civil servant Lucie Castets to be prime minister.
While Italy’s communist tradition remains fragmented and politically marginal, France’s party is attempting to re-establish itself as an independent force rooted in working-class organisation, says NICK WRIGHT
While millions face poverty and public services are squeezed, France is committing billions to defence spending and weapons production, in a dangerous shift towards permanent preparation for war, says CONOR BOLLINS
The desperate French president keeps running up the same political cul-de-sac. DENNIS BROE offers an explanation