French voters are heading to the polls this Sunday for a significant moment in their political history: the first round of snap parliamentary elections that could potentially lead to the country’s first far-right government since World War II — or no majority at all.
The outcome of the vote is uncertain due to three major political blocs competing: the far-right National Rally, President Macron’s centrist alliance, and the New Popular Front coalition. The unique French electoral system requires candidates to secure over 50% of the vote to win outright on Sunday. If no candidate achieves this, a second round will follow.
In the event of a lack of majority, various scenarios could unfold including the possibility of cohabitation where the president is forced to work with a prime minister from a different political force. The implications of different outcomes on defense, foreign policy, and domestic governance could be significant.
The race is tight and the results remain uncertain as voters decide the direction of France’s political landscape. Stay tuned for updates as the French parliamentary elections unfold.
Read on to learn more about the intricate French electoral system, potential outcomes, and the implications of different scenarios on the country’s governance.