French Prime Minister Michel Barnier, known for his role in negotiating Brexit, now faces a new challenge – running a country divided by deep political faultlines. President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint Barnier, 73, as his prime minister comes at a critical time, with France facing a hung parliament and pressing budget legislation with significant spending cuts on the horizon.
A Delicate Balance
Barnier’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions, with some investors pleased by the choice and others expressing skepticism. While Macron sees the new parliament as having a center-right lean, the left has criticized the appointment as a “democratic coup” and has announced plans for street protests. Additionally, Barnier’s tentative support from Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally comes with strings attached, putting pressure on Barnier from all sides.
Born in 1951 near Grenoble, Barnier has had a long and distinguished political career in France and the European Union. From serving as a lawmaker to holding senior EU positions, Barnier has been a prominent figure in European politics. However, his role in Brexit negotiations made him a target for critics who viewed him as a symbol of Brussels’ rigid enforcement of rules.
Challenges Ahead
Barnier’s relations with Macron will be closely scrutinized, as the president seeks to maintain his legislative achievements while also welcoming a prime minister with the semblance of an adversarial relationship. Some commentators are skeptical about Barnier’s ability to push back against Macron, with one Communist Party spokesman even likening him to a “slightly older, slightly taller version of Macron.”
As Barnier takes on the role of prime minister, he may find himself navigating a complex web of political alliances and beliefs. His previous stance on issues such as immigration and Brexit may come under scrutiny, as he seeks to strike a balance between different factions within the government. With Macronism on the decline, Barnier’s tenure as prime minister will be closely watched to see how he navigates the changing political landscape in France.
French Prime Minister Michel Barnier faces a daunting task as he takes on the responsibility of running a divided country with a contentious political climate. With deep political faultlines and conflicting interests at play, Barnier will need to demonstrate skillful leadership and strategic decision-making to guide France through these challenging times. As he embarks on this new chapter in his political career, Barnier’s actions and decisions will shape the future of France and its place in the world.