France : Une Grave Crise Démocratique ? - L’Édito De Patrick - C À Vous - 06/04/2023

In a recent statement, Laurent Berger questioned whether we are currently experiencing a crisis of democracy. This assertion was immediately contested by those in his entourage, and even by the President of the Republic himself. Emmanuel Macron, in response to Berger's statement, declared that we cannot speak of a democratic crisis. According to the President, the misuse of words only serves to fuel extremism. He argued that as an elected leader, with a democratically backed project, he does not see the current situation as a crisis of democracy.

However, it is worth noting that President Macron also took the opportunity to criticize the CFDT, a major French trade union, for not proposing an alternative plan on pension reforms. Yet, it is puzzling to reprimand the CFDT for not presenting an alternative when the government itself disregarded the union's initial reform proposal, which called for a universal points-based system. This apparent contradiction only adds fuel to the fire, perpetuating the caricature that portrays the extreme left as the instigator of chaos and the largest French trade union as being without a voice.

So, the question remains: are we truly facing a severe crisis of democracy? Does this mean that the democratic principles upon which our societies are built are being breached? While the chosen phrase may be unfortunate, the undeniable truth is that we are currently facing a palpable democratic malaise. This is evidenced by factors such as rising abstention rates, record levels of distrust towards politicians and institutions, and a surge in populism and authoritarianism.

One particularly striking example of this democratic malaise is the recent social movement against pension reforms. Within the ranks of the demonstrators, we find leaders who openly question the legitimacy of the President and his majority to govern France. Olivier Faure, the leader of the Socialist Party, claims that Emmanuel Macron symbolizes a dual social and democratic fracture. Similarly, Cyrielle Châtelain, the leader of the Green Party's parliamentary group, emphasizes that neither the French people nor the opposition are willing to turn the page and move on.

If, as Berger suggests, the institutions decide that the debate surrounding the pension reforms is closed, would he and the CFDT be prepared to turn the page? In response, Berger asserts that the CFDT has always considered the respect for institutions as the cornerstone of democracy. He acknowledges that the use of the 49-3 procedure, which allows the government to bypass a parliamentary vote, raises concerns, but he stops short of labeling it undemocratic. Ultimately, Berger states that whatever decision the Constitutional Council makes, it must be respected, as disregarding the institutions that allow us to coexist is not a viable option.

In conclusion, while there may be differing opinions on the severity of the current situation, it is undeniable that a sense of democratic malaise pervades society. The rising levels of abstention, distrust, and the rejection of democratic processes indicate a deepening crisis. However, it is important to avoid falling into the trap of oversimplification and caricature, blaming either the extreme left or the largest trade union for the current state of democracy. Instead, it is essential to engage in meaningful dialogue, respecting the institutions that bind us together and striving to find sustainable solutions to address the challenges we face.