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Despite the win for the left and far left in the French parliamentary elections, the results have produced a fragmented parliament, with the need for a coalition to obtain a majority. So much so that several news websites have developed interactive simulations that allow their readers to try and build this majority using the different blocs. This majority, according to the French constitution, will choose the next prime minister and government.

Beyond the entertainment of such simulations, they quickly highlight that, at the core of French politics, there are only two political blocs: France Unbowed and the National Rally. Despite being complete opposites, they are clear in their political programs about how they will answer the people’s grievances. In contrast, the rest of the political formations — from center-left to center-right, which includes the presidential majority — have a transactional mindset and lack a real political vision.

If we shift to the other side of the Channel, we notice that, in the UK, the Conservative Party has lost to a clear and undeniable Labour majority. Yet, just like in France, the Conservatives have become a center or even center-left party ruled by technocrats. This is why I see that the shift to Labour is an interesting one, as change was needed. Decency and respect in the transition of power should also ease the polarization.

Unfortunately, decent politics has been vanishing as the stakes have become unprecedentedly high

Khaled Abou Zahr

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