Michel Barnier

2024 - 9 - 6

Is Michel Barnier the French Prime Minister We Didn’t Know We Needed?

Brexit negotiation - Emmanuel Macron - European Union - Formation of government - French politics - left-wing lawmakers - Michel Barnier - parliamentary deadlock - political unity - right-wing parties

Hold onto your berets! Emmanuel Macron appoints Brexit star Michel Barnier as France's new PM and sparks both cheers and jeers!

In a move that has both shocked and thrilled political pundits, French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as the new Prime Minister of France. This decision marks the end of a 50-day stint of caretaker government and aims to usher in a new era of political stability. However, Barnier's appointment has not been without controversy; left-wing lawmakers are already expressing their outrage, claiming that his conservative background means he won’t be able to appeal to the broader political spectrum of the nation.

Barnier, who previously served as a foreign minister and has had a significant political career across various centre-right administrations, will now face the mammoth task of forming a unifying government. His expertise in negotiating Brexit for the European Union puts him at an interesting crossroads, as tackling issues domestically might require a very different skill set than the one he employed with UK negotiators. One can only wonder if Barnier's time negotiating with politicians across the English Channel has equipped him to face the equally stormy waters of French politics.

As he readies himself for this significant leadership role, Barnier is keen to promise respect for all political forces, suggesting that he may aim for some degree of bipartisanship. With France’s recent parliamentary elections causing a major rift in the political landscape, it will be crucial for Barnier to cater to both the left and right or risk alienation from either side. Can the seasoned negotiator navigate this political minefield, or will he find himself wearing the proverbial anorak of a seasoned statesman who doesn't quite fit the bill?

Underneath this political drama lies an important fact: Barnier is not just any politician; he has been a staple in French and European politics for decades. Holding the title of the country’s oldest prime minister in modern history at 72, he brings a wealth of experience that could be either a boon or a burden. Interestingly, Barnier also has the unique distinction of being one of the few individuals to shadow a global political crisis like Brexit while maintaining a significant domestic role. As his journey begins, we’re all curious—what will Chapter 2 of Michel Barnier's story look like?

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Image courtesy of "Wyoming Public Media"

France's Macron names EU's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as ... (Wyoming Public Media)

The appointment ends 50 days of caretaker government, but the choice has already angered left wing lawmakers, who say the conservative Barnier won't get a ...

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Macron appoints Michel Barnier as new PM, hoping to end political ... (POLITICO.eu)

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Michel Barnier promises respect for 'all political forces' as French PM · Try unlimited access · Only $1 for 4 weeks · Explore more offers. · Explore our full range ...

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Macron charged Barnier with forming a government on Thursday, according to an announcement shared by the Elysee Palace.

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Michel Barnier named as new prime minister of France (The Guardian)

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Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier appointed French prime ... (EURACTIV)

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France's Macron names former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as ... (Aljazeera.com)

President hopes his choice will end weeks of deadlock since snap poll, counting on far right not to block appointment.

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France's Macron names EU's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier as ... (KUAR)

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