French government faces backlash for ignoring election results

After 11 weeks of political paralysis, Prime Minister Michel Barnier's government was formed on September 21, emerging from an alliance between Emmanuel Macron's bloc and the Les Républicains party. This new government is characterized by a significant rightward shift, with key appointments such as Bruno Retailleau as interior minister and Laurence Garnier as junior consumer affairs minister, both of whom represent conservative values. The reappointment of several members from a previous defeated government raises concerns about the legitimacy of this coalition. The negotiations leading to the formation of this government highlighted the struggle for influence between Macron and Barnier, with the right demanding control over security portfolios while Macron's supporters retained influence in economic and social matters. Despite the absence of a formal coalition pact, the government is bound by vague commitments, undermining the hopes for change that were prevalent during the parliamentary election campaign. The new administration faces significant challenges, particularly the threat posed by the far-right Rassemblement National party, which could leverage its position on immigration issues. This situation reflects a broader democratic malaise in France, as the government is seen as lacking a strong mandate and is vulnerable to external pressures. The political crisis in France is deepening, with potential implications for the upcoming presidential election in 2027. Political contenders are likely to avoid destabilizing the country further, indicating a complex landscape where the government must navigate both internal and external challenges to maintain stability.