France's Fading Presence in African Commemorations

On August 15, France marked the 79th anniversary of the Allied landings in Provence, a significant yet often overshadowed event in World War II history. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the collective struggle for peace and justice, urging unity among all who identify as French. He acknowledged the contributions and sacrifices of soldiers from former African colonies, highlighting the diverse origins of the 250,000 troops who fought to reclaim key ports from German forces. The day's commemorative events faced disruptions due to storm warnings, leading to the cancellation of a reception on a helicopter carrier and a planned re-enactment of the landings in Toulon. The original landings involved a significant number of African soldiers, whose historical role has been a point of contention in Franco-African relations, particularly following a 1944 incident where French forces clashed with African troops over pay disputes. As Macron navigates the complexities of honoring shared histories, he faces challenges in maintaining France's influence in Africa amid rising sovereigntist sentiments. The participation of African leaders at the commemoration was notably lower than in previous years, reflecting shifting dynamics in post-colonial relationships. Despite this, Macron welcomed the presence of long-time ally Cameroon's President Biya, who was set to speak at the military cemetery honoring fallen soldiers. The commemorative events serve as a reminder of the intertwined histories of France and its former colonies, as Macron seeks to balance remembrance with the evolving political landscape in Africa.