France. What is the first word that jumps to your mind? Chances are, its Paris or Love. Not elections.
 |
| Participants at French polling station |
However, one of the most significant events to occur in France this year is the election which brought an end to Nicolas Sarkozy’s austere policy plans and ushered in Francois Hollande, running as a socialist; and while this may not immediately seem important to a non-French citizen, this event has global significance. These intersections between us and them will be outlined over the series of a few articles, hopefully explaining:
WHY YOU CARE ABOUT FRENCH ELECTIONS
France has for many years been a key player in the political and economic worlds, with both a significant GDP and influence in the Eurozone and EU that could not be ignored. However, with the situation overseas growing increasingly dire the country had begun to lose steam and influence, and the austere policies likely in their future seemed to guarantee no refreshment.
Interestingly, it may be that the more open purse of a socialistic administration will be the saving grace. While governments are generally not the most efficient employers, there are occasions where, historically, they have done some good. While this opinion is not without contention (namely, Roosevelt and the New Deal), it is also clear in this time that there is a problem which no amount of reservation can seem to help.
So what if this strategy works? France is not the only country suffering, and with few uncontested options available, there are many in Washington who would love to hold a successful example of a socialistic strategy up in the spotlight. With a balance as delicate as our current alignments, there is no doubt that this is significant. After all, it is not only children who play games of follow the leader.
WE
