Newly-appointed French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal listens to the speech of outgoing French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne (not seen) during a handover ceremony in the courtyard of the Hotel Matignon, French Prime ministers’ official residence, in Paris, France, January 9, 2024. REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq
In a strategic move aimed at countering the rising popularity of the far-right ahead of the upcoming European parliamentary elections, French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed young political talent Gabriel Attal as the country’s prime minister. Macron’s centrist Renaissance party is facing stiff competition from Marine Le Pen’s Rassemblement National (RN), which currently leads in opinion polls.
Similar to other European countries, France’s far-right has capitalized on issues such as a cost-of-living crisis, immigration concerns, and public resentment toward the political elite. Macron’s efforts to bridge the gap between the political class and the general public, promised during his 2017 campaign, have fallen short.
The far-right, led by Marine Le Pen’s rising star Jordan Bardella, has gained momentum, causing concern among Macron’s strategists. A video depicting Bardella receiving enthusiastic support at a food market triggered alarm in Macron’s camp, prompting the president to urgently address the challenge.
Gabriel Attal, at 34, becomes France’s youngest-ever prime minister and is considered a formidable opponent. Known for his effective communication skills, adept debating in parliament and on media platforms, and the ability to appeal to conservative voters, Attal is seen as Macron’s best countermeasure against Bardella’s growing influence.
As the former education minister, Attal made headlines by initiating a ban on the Muslim abaya dress in schools, earning praise from the influential right-wing media empire led by Vincent Bollore. Macron’s decision to appoint Attal is a strategic move to counter Bardella’s ascent, especially in the context of the crucial European elections later this year.
Success in the European elections is vital for Macron’s continued influence in Brussels. The previous election in 2019 saw Macron’s party closely trailing RN, and a strong showing in 2024 is crucial for Macron to maintain influence in shaping EU policies. The potential success of RN could not only be symbolic but also diminish Macron’s sway over EU policies, given the likely loss of lawmakers from Spain and the Netherlands in his Renew grouping.
While Macron has expanded France’s influence in Europe, populist gains across Europe pose a challenge. Some critics argue that Macron should prioritize domestic issues, such as education and housing, which are seen as pressing concerns for the public.
Attal’s role as prime minister will be closely scrutinized, with challenges including the need to restore authority in the face of societal fragmentation and a perceived decline in civility. Macron’s emphasis on a “Civic Re-Armament” signals a focus on addressing popular anxieties about French democracy, crime, and anti-social behavior.
However, it remains to be seen whether Attal can replicate his success in previous roles, especially considering the long-term challenges such as riots in city suburbs, grim murders, and Islamist attacks. Managing senior ministers and the historical perception of the prime minister as the fall guy during a president’s unpopular phase add further complexities to Attal’s role.
Bardella, responding to Attal’s appointment, suggested that Macron’s move is an attempt to boost his popularity and divert attention from potential challenges in the final stages of his term. The political dynamics set the stage for an intense electoral battle with implications not only for France but also for Macron’s standing on the European stage.
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