- Michel Barnier named France’s new prime minister
- Barnier is known for Brexit negotiations and a long political career.
- Former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal resigned in July.
Michel Barnier, the former EU chief Brexit negotiator, has been appointed as France’s new prime minister, according to an announcement from the French president’s office. This decision brings to an end a two-month period of political impasse following inconclusive results from recent parliamentary elections.
The Élysée Palace issued a statement on Thursday, declaring: “The President of the Republic has appointed Michel Barnier as Prime Minister. He is entrusted with the responsibility of forming a unified government to serve the country and the French people.” This announcement follows an extensive period of consultations aimed at ensuring a stable and effective government.
Barnier, 73, is a prominent figure in French and European politics, known for his role in negotiating the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union. As a staunch Europhile and member of the traditional right-wing Republicans party, Barnier brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to bridge political divides and stabilize the government.
Throughout his extensive career, Barnier has held numerous significant positions, including French foreign, agriculture, and environment minister. Additionally, he served twice as a European commissioner and as an adviser to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Despite his presidential bid in 2021, Barnier did not receive sufficient support within his party to advance.
Barnier’s appointment follows the resignation of former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who stepped down in July after President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Ensemble alliance was defeated in the parliamentary elections. Macron faced considerable pressure to name a new prime minister, and his efforts to finalize this decision were a focal point during his recent visit to Serbia.
The prospects for Barnier’s ability to form a stable government remain uncertain. The far-right National Rally (RN) has emerged as one of the largest parties in parliament after the July elections. While RN has indicated a potential openness to collaborating with Barnier, their leader, Laurent Jacobelli, has criticized the choice, labeling Barnier as part of an outdated political establishment.
Barnier is particularly well-known for his firm stance during the Brexit negotiations, which took place between 2016 and 2021. His reputation as a tough negotiator has earned him both praise and criticism, particularly from Brexiteers in the UK who viewed his approach as uncompromising.
Born in January 1951 in a suburb of Grenoble, Barnier began his political career at a young age, first being elected to parliament at 27. His long tenure in French and European politics positions him as a seasoned leader tasked with navigating France through its current political challenges.
