The Heartbreaking Outcome of France’s Snap Elections for Climate Advocates

The Heartbreaking Outcome of the French Snap Elections for Climate Advocates

As a proud French citizen, the results of the recent snap elections have left me devastated. As a climate campaigner, the implications are even more alarming. Regardless of the final outcome and the eventual makeup of the Parliament, climate change and environmental issues were glaringly absent from the electoral discourse. This neglect is particularly troubling given the abrupt decision to dissolve the current assembly, coinciding with the far-right’s most significant rise to power since World War II. Meanwhile, the climate crisis did not pause for the elections: the disturbing images of a “brown” far-right surge across the French electoral landscape juxtaposed with floods engulfing alpine towns in Northern Italy, Austria, and Switzerland were chilling. Each day, as the planet warms, we continue to lose invaluable ecosystems and natural resources due to unchecked human activity.

A Stalemate Could Lead to Stagnation

As we examine the potential scenarios for France, none offer genuine comfort. A far-right government poses a serious threat not only to democracy but also to civil peace and equality, potentially unraveling the social fabric of the nation—who knows where such a downward spiral might lead? On the other hand, a deadlock among the three main political parties could stifle meaningful action and hinder the resolution of the underlying issues plaguing French citizens. The current political landscape in France is not conducive to compromise or coalition-building; the system thrives on stark confrontations, and the opportunity to amend the flaws in the current constitution diminishes with each passing day.

Even if this deadlock merely delays the inevitable crisis facing the regime, it underscores a bleak reality: none of the possible outcomes prioritize the transition to a climate-neutral and nature-positive economy. This is particularly disheartening given the vast benefits such a transition could bring, provided the state takes decisive action, creates favorable conditions for implementation, and invests significantly while fostering private sector confidence. While France may not be a major direct emitter of greenhouse gases, it ranks as the seventh-largest economy globally, leading to substantial indirect emissions. Alarmingly, the average French citizen consumes resources at a rate twice what the country can sustainably provide each year.

The Potential for a French Downturn

Halting current sustainable investment plans in France could result in the loss of tens of thousands of jobs, jeopardizing assets and infrastructure necessary for future markets and triggering a prolonged recession that could further fracture the social fabric. Such a move would send a concerning message to the international community: if France abandons its commitment to sustainable transition, why should its allies persist? The collective momentum in the global “race to clean” could wane if France retreats from its commitments.

For Europe, a downturn in France could have far-reaching implications at the supranational level, potentially creating a blocking minority in the European Council against any green or social policy initiatives that threaten the progress made over the past decade. Slowing down now on the path to sustainability poses significant financial risks and exacerbates inequalities, with the most vulnerable populations suffering the most from climate change and poorly planned transitions.

This grim scenario might seem overwhelming, but it should not lead to resignation. Every fraction of a degree of warming matters, and every species lost is significant; protecting our climate and environment cannot be relegated to the sidelines while waiting for more favorable governance. The temptation to surrender in the face of such daunting challenges is understandable, as feelings of helplessness can take a toll on mental health. However, when viewing the broader picture—one that encompasses both the planet and humanity—the moment for despair should be fleeting. Instead, we must rally our efforts and persist in the fight, as hope remains the strongest bond uniting humanity.

Be the Change You Wish to See

At this critical juncture, it is imperative for civil society actors to feel empowered to continue their work and rise above the shortcomings of political leaders. Citizens, NGOs, unions, academics, and business leaders have the capacity to drive positive change from the grassroots level. History is replete with instances where successful mobilization from civil society has led to transformative change: the fall of the Berlin Wall, the suffragette movement, and the end of apartheid are all testaments to the power of collective action.

Furthermore, other governance levels must not be overlooked. The concept of sustainable development was acknowledged by the UN in the 1970s, and cities and regions are at the forefront of implementing the green transition through their procurement and investment strategies. For climate and sustainability advocates, the rise of authoritarian governments could signal a new era, but it is crucial not to succumb to fatalism. Instead, this moment calls for a collective effort to reimagine strategies for the future. Today, the mantra “Be the change that you wish to see in the world” resonates more profoundly than ever.

Adeline Rochet is Programme Leader at the Corporate Leader Group Europe within the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL).
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