The 2017 French Presidential Election: A Clash Between Old and New, Globalization and Nationalism

France has always been a nation of contradictions, where revolutionary ideals jostle against deeply ingrained tradition. This tension came to a head in the 2017 presidential election, pitting Emmanuel Macron, a relative newcomer on the political scene, against Marine Le Pen, the leader of the far-right National Rally party. The contest was not merely a battle for votes but a referendum on France’s future direction: would it embrace globalisation and progressive values or retreat into nationalist populism?

Macron, a former investment banker and economy minister under Socialist President François Hollande, positioned himself as the candidate of “renewal.” His movement, “En Marche!” (On the Move!), attracted a diverse coalition of voters disillusioned with traditional left and right-wing parties. Macron promised economic reforms, social justice, and a strong Europe. He presented himself as a fresh face, untainted by the scandals and perceived failures of the establishment.

Le Pen, on the other hand, tapped into the growing anxieties surrounding immigration, globalization, and cultural change. She campaigned on a platform of restricting immigration, leaving the eurozone, and curbing the influence of Islam in France. Le Pen’s rhetoric appealed to those who felt left behind by economic progress and threatened by societal shifts.

The election campaign was fiercely contested, with both candidates engaging in televised debates and crisscrossing the country. Macron’s message of hope and change resonated with a significant portion of the electorate, particularly among young voters and urban dwellers.

Le Pen, however, successfully mobilized her base, drawing large crowds to rallies and exploiting concerns about security and national identity. The campaign was marred by controversy, with accusations of fake news and inflammatory rhetoric on both sides.

In the end, Macron emerged victorious, securing 66.1% of the vote compared to Le Pen’s 33.9%. His victory was seen as a triumph for centrism and a rejection of populist nationalism. However, Le Pen’s strong showing highlighted the deep divisions within French society and the enduring appeal of far-right ideology.

The consequences of the 2017 election are still unfolding. Macron has embarked on an ambitious program of reforms, aimed at modernizing the economy, strengthening social protections, and tackling climate change. However, he faces significant challenges, including high unemployment, social unrest, and the persistent threat from the far-right.

Analyzing the Key Issues:

• Globalization and its Discontents: Macron’s embrace of globalization contrasted sharply with Le Pen’s protectionist stance. The debate over free trade, immigration, and international cooperation reflected broader anxieties about the impact of globalisation on national identities and economic security.

• The Rise of Populism: Le Pen’s campaign capitalized on a wave of populism sweeping across Europe and beyond. Her appeal to national identity, cultural anxieties, and anti-establishment sentiment resonated with voters feeling disillusioned with traditional politics.
• Generational Divide: Macron enjoyed strong support among younger voters, who saw him as a representative of change and progress. Le Pen’s base tended to be older and more conservative, reflecting a generational divide on issues like social values and economic policy.

Looking Forward:

The 2017 French presidential election was a watershed moment in French politics. While Macron’s victory offered a reprieve from the rise of far-right populism, it also exposed deep divisions within French society. Addressing these divisions and finding common ground will be crucial for France to navigate the challenges of the 21st century.

Macron’s reforms have met with mixed success, and his popularity has fluctuated. The enduring strength of the far-right and the rise of new political movements continue to challenge the established order in France. As we look ahead, it remains unclear whether Macron will be able to consolidate his position or whether France is destined for further political turbulence.

One thing is certain: the 2017 election was a stark reminder that the battle for the soul of Europe is far from over.