In the 1980s, a French punk rock band popularized the chant “La jeunesse emmerde le Front National” as a leftist rallying cry against the far-right. Decades later, this narrative is shifting as increasing numbers of young people are backing the far-right National Rally party. Recent parliamentary election results show an uptick in youth participation, with 25% of voters aged 18 to 24 supporting the National Rally, up from 12% two years ago, according to Ifop polling.
The National Rally’s rebranding, led by its charismatic 28-year-old president Jordan Bardella, has played a key role in attracting young voters. Bardella’s savvy social media use, particularly on TikTok, has bolstered the party’s appeal, helping it move past its controversial history tied to founder Jean-Marie Le Pen. Bardella’s message includes preferential treatment for French citizens and addressing crime and immigration, resonating with young, working-class voters frustrated with traditional politicians.
This ideological shift is causing alarm on the left, which remains the preference for the majority of young voters. The New Popular Front, a coalition of left-wing parties, garnered 42% of the youth vote in the first round. As voter participation surged to 56%, activists scramble to mobilize support ahead of the runoff elections, fearing the far-right’s rise.
Analysts highlight the emotional and personal aspects of Bardella’s campaign, contrasting it with broader ideological discussions. This strategy, combined with increasing dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron’s government, has spurred the far-right’s success.
For young immigrants and ethnic minorities, Bardella’s rise evokes fear and uncertainty, with concerns over increased discrimination and potential policy changes affecting law enforcement. As the election approaches its final stage, the political landscape of France teeters on a crucial inflection point, with the far right on the verge of unprecedented power.
Original Story https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/04/world/europe/france-far-right-youth-vote.html
Category : Youth,Politics and Government,Right-Wing Extremism and Alt-Right,Social Media,Race and Ethnicity,Polls and Public Opinion,Immigration and Emigration,Legislatures and Parliaments,Voting and Voters,Bardella, Jordan (1995- ),National Rally (France),New Popular Front (French Political Party),Paris (France),France,Elections,Macron, Emmanuel (1977- )
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