French Protesters Mobilize Against Surging Far-Right Ahead of Snap Elections
Antiracism groups, French unions, and a newly formed left-wing coalition are gearing up for widespread protests scheduled this Saturday in Paris and across France. The demonstrations aim to counter the growing influence of the nationalist far-right party, National Rally, ahead of imminent snap parliamentary elections.
The protests come in response to the recent electoral gains of Marine Le Pen’s National Rally in the European Parliament elections, which have shaken President Emmanuel Macron’s administration. Macron has responded by dissolving the National Assembly and calling for new elections on June 30 and July 7, sparking a frenzied campaign period.
In Paris, demonstrators will gather at Place de la Republique before marching through eastern parts of the city. The mobilization reflects fears among many that France could see its first far-right government since World War II if National Rally secures a majority in the upcoming parliamentary polls.
"We need a democratic and social upsurge — if not, the extreme right will take power," declared French unions in a statement, emphasizing the threat posed to the Republic and its democratic values.
The surge in support for National Rally has prompted unprecedented unity among left-wing parties, who have set aside their differences to form a coalition. This alliance aims to consolidate opposition to the far-right platform, urging French citizens to rally against what they see as a dangerous shift in national politics.
Recent opinion polls indicate that National Rally, notorious for its founder’s convictions of racism and antisemitism, is leading in voter preferences for the first round of parliamentary elections. The party’s resurgence has significantly outpaced Macron’s Renaissance party, posing a direct challenge to his leadership and policy agenda.
While Macron remains president until 2027 with authority over foreign policy and defense, a National Rally victory could undermine his domestic authority. The potential ascension of 28-year-old Jordan Bardella, National Rally’s leader, to the role of prime minister would signal a seismic shift in French domestic and economic policies.
As tensions escalate leading up to the elections, Saturday’s protests are expected to draw large crowds, underscoring the high stakes and polarized political landscape in France.
