One month after the municipal elections, a new electoral marathon begins in France: in May 2027, the Élysée Palace will have a new tenant. Who will succeed Emmanuel Macron? In this uncertain race towards the presidential election where candidates jostle each other in utter disorder, the foreign press does not hide its concerns about the impending political whirlwind.
“The municipal elections marked the start of a long electoral campaign,” writes Stefano Cingolani in Il Foglio. “In both France and Italy, the collapse of the two pillars of traditional political life has shaken the entire political landscape.”
The European press expresses worry about the changing political landscape in France, which poses challenges in finding a parliamentary majority and governing effectively. Some suggest that an early resignation by Emmanuel Macron could potentially avoid this visible paralysis.
Despite concerns, it is noted that a victory for the far-right National Rally is not inevitable, as highlighted by various European media outlets. The defeat of Viktor Orban in Hungary also challenges the belief that illiberal parties can maintain power indefinitely.
The possibility of interference in European democracies poses a new threat, prompting speculation about the outcome of the French presidential election. There is caution against premature celebrations following the Hungarian election, as European countries navigate complex political landscapes.
In other news, a range of topics including tensions in the Middle East, the legacy of Gerry Adams and the IRA, the Pope’s visit to Africa, and the rise of Northern Irish rap group Kneecap are explored in more detail in the issue.
Overall, the political climate in Europe remains uncertain as the region grapples with various challenges and transitions on both national and international levels.
/2026/04/15/69dffdeab35c4313927113.jpg "War in the Middle East: The White House announces discussing a new meeting with Iran")