On Monday, March 2nd, at the Ile Longue military base, Emmanuel Macron will clarify his proposal to expand French nuclear deterrence to protect its neighboring countries. This is part of his ongoing efforts to deepen European integration, which began with his speech at the Sorbonne in 2017. However, as the competition heats up for 2027, it remains to be seen if future leaders will continue Macron’s European vision.
Within Macron’s camp, there is a shift towards differentiation and potential division rather than continuity. It is likely that this trend will continue in the coming months. At the Elysee Palace, preparations are being made for the inheritance of Macron’s activism and European achievements to be top priorities for his successors.
There is a debate emerging on the superiority of European standards over national standards, with some questioning the current state of the EU. Emmanuel Macron’s efforts to boost the EU’s popularity in France have not been successful, as recent surveys indicate a critical view of the Union among the French population.
While the potential candidates of the central block consider European themes important, there is a need for flexibility in addressing both ends of the spectrum. It will be crucial for the future candidate to balance Macron’s European vision with the prevailing skepticism. Adaptation to the current climate will be key for success in the upcoming election.
