French President Emmanuel Macron’s bold decision to dissolve parliament and call for early elections paid off with the defeat of National Rally leader Marine Le Pen. Despite Le Pen’s hopes of gaining an absolute majority in the snap elections, Macron’s risk forced French voters to take responsibility and participate in an unprecedented political alert.
The democratic forces in France collaborated to block the far-right’s path to power in the runoff vote. Le Pen’s attempts to soften her image and make promises of a generous welfare state were not enough to sway the voters.
A moderate government is set to be formed through collaboration between Macron’s party and the left-wing New Popular Front coalition, excluding the far-left Jean-Luc Melenchon. The political ordeal in France highlights the concerns of citizens who feel left behind by globalization and economic changes.
This lesson is crucial for all of Europe, where similar sentiments exist. The EU must respond convincingly to the fears and insecurities of its citizens to maintain democracy, moderation, and cultural values.