France is bracing for legislative elections this Sunday, which have the potential to reshape the country’s political landscape as much as a presidential election. The sudden nature of the elections and the possibility of forced cohabitation between the far-right Le Penist party and President Emmanuel Macron have sparked significant interest. The dissolution of the National Assembly by President Macron following the defeat in the European elections has set the stage for a high-stakes political battle.
The rise of the Le Penist party, formerly known as the National Front, has disrupted traditional French politics. The Popular Front, made up of left-wing parties, has struggled to form a united response to the growing influence of the Le Penist party. The Center has experienced slight growth in support but faces an uphill battle to prevent the far-right from gaining an absolute majority.
Xenophobia, fear of foreigners, migrants, Muslims, and binationals, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia have dominated the election campaign. Racism and anti-Semitism have become increasingly normalized, prompting concerns about the future of France. Many fear that a far-right victory could lead to discrimination against binationals and foreign-born residents in France.
The fear of being considered a second-class citizen due to dual nationality or foreign origins has gripped many in France. Parents worry about their children’s prospects should a far-right party come to power. The potential loss of rights for foreign-born children in France and rising xenophobic rhetoric have mobilized many voters.
As turnout continues to break records two days before elections are set to begin, it’s clear that this event holds significant importance for France’s people. The possibility of a far-right victory and its consequences have led many voters to take action despite their apprehension about what lies ahead.
France stands on a precipice of significant change that could impact its future for years to come. The unpredictability of election outcomes and fears about shared governance between President Macron and Le Penist prime minister continue to keep many people anxious about what may happen next week at polling stations across France.
