What to Watch For in France’s High-Stakes Elections

France is gearing up for a high-stakes election that could have major implications for the country and the European Union as a whole. With the first round of voting set to take place on April 10, all eyes are on the candidates and the issues at play. Here are some key things to watch for in France’s upcoming election:

The Main Candidates: The two frontrunners in the election are incumbent President Emmanuel Macron and far-right candidate Marine Le Pen. Macron, a centrist, is seeking a second term in office, while Le Pen is hoping to build on her strong showing in the 2017 election. Both candidates have drastically different visions for the future of France, with Macron advocating for a more pro-European, globalist approach, while Le Pen is pushing for a more nationalist, protectionist agenda.

The Issues: One of the key issues in this election is the economy. France, like many countries, has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, and voters are looking for a candidate who can lead the country to economic recovery. Macron has touted his economic record, pointing to his government’s handling of the pandemic and efforts to boost growth. Le Pen, on the other hand, is focusing on issues like immigration and security, arguing that France needs to take a tougher stance on these issues to protect its citizens.

The European Union: Another important issue in this election is France’s relationship with the European Union. Macron is a staunch supporter of the EU and has called for greater integration and cooperation among member states. Le Pen, on the other hand, has been critical of the EU, arguing that it has eroded France’s sovereignty and harmed its economy. The outcome of the election could have major implications for the future of the EU, as France is one of its largest and most influential members.

The Rise of Populism: Like many countries in Europe, France has seen a rise in populism in recent years, with far-right parties gaining traction among voters. Le Pen’s National Rally party has been a major player in this trend, and her strong showing in the 2017 election has put her in a strong position to challenge Macron once again. The outcome of this election could have major implications for the future of populism in France and across Europe.

Overall, France’s upcoming election is shaping up to be a crucial moment for the country and the European Union. With major issues at play and two very different candidates vying for the presidency, the outcome of the election could have far-reaching consequences for the future of France and the continent as a whole. Voters will have to carefully consider their choices and weigh the potential outcomes as they head to the polls in April.