France's Dam Against the Right-Wing Populist Wave Has Held

The parliamentary elections in France have shown that the dam against right-wing populism has held. Although the Rassemblement National of Marine Le Pen was able to significantly expand its seats, it remained only the third strongest force.

The left-wing electoral alliance of the Nouvelle Union Populaire Écologique et Sociale (NUPES) surprisingly became the strongest force, but cannot form a viable governing majority. President Macron now has to form a minority government, which will significantly hamper his reform plans.

The result of the elections has led to a political deadlock, as no single party or bloc holds a majority. This uncertain political landscape may require complex negotiations and a culture of political compromise, which France lacks.

However, the left-wing coalition's victory has denied the far-right National Rally party a majority in the lower house of Parliament, signaling a successful block against the rise of right-wing populism. The outcome of the election means that the far right will not lead the next government, and the leftist bloc has gained significant influence in the parliament.

Marine Tondelier, the leader of France's Green Party, has played a pivotal role in the left-wing coalition's victory, with their plans centered around investment in renewable energy and implementing a climate plan for carbon neutrality by 2050.