Michel Barnier Appointed as France's Prime Minister: Navigating Political Instability and National Unity

Michel Barnier, former EU Commissioner and chief Brexit negotiator, was appointed as France’s new prime minister on 5 September 2024. His extensive political experience, which includes roles as French foreign, environment, and agriculture minister, as well as his two stints as European commissioner, positions him as a seasoned leader in navigating complex political landscapes.

Barnier's appointment comes at a time of political instability in France, following legislative elections that resulted in a hung parliament. His primary challenge will be to form a government that can unite the deeply divided National Assembly, especially as President Emmanuel Macron’s party no longer holds a parliamentary majority. Barnier’s ability to work across the political spectrum will be critical in ensuring that his government can survive potential no-confidence motions, particularly from opposition parties like the left-leaning New Popular Front and far-right National Rally.

As a conservative from the Les Républicains party, Barnier is expected to appeal to centrist and right-wing lawmakers. His experience leading the EU’s Brexit negotiations, which involved intense, high-stakes diplomacy, may prove invaluable as he seeks to manage internal French politics, particularly in relation to contentious issues like pension reform and immigration. While Barnier has been viewed as a potential mediator, his conservative stances on some issues, like immigration, could put him at odds with more progressive factions.

This new role represents the pinnacle of Barnier's long political career, but his ability to secure long-term stability for the French government remains to be seen. His leadership will be tested by the demands of both domestic politics and the ongoing economic and social challenges facing France.