François Hollande’s legitimacy crisis is a threat to the French republic

Like many countries in Europe, France is facing a serious economic and social crisis. As John Gaffney writes, the situation in France is compounded by the highly personalised French political system, which keeps the President of the Republic continually in the spotlight. He argues that François Hollande has failed to project a clear and effective public persona and that his presidency is now on the verge of unravelling.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: France's 'Leftist Sarko': Popular Minister Rankles Ailing Socialists http://www.europeansources.info/record/frances-leftist-sarko-popular-minister-rankles-ailing-socialists/

The Guardian, 12.11.13: François Hollande booed as 70 arrested at Armistice Day ceremony http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/nov/11/francois-hollande-booed-protesters-arrested-armistice-day

France24, 14.11.13: Hollande's popularity hits new low of 15% http://www.france24.com/en/20131114-hollandes-popularity-hits-new-low-15

The Economist, No.8864, 30.11.13: France. Strident neocon, lame Socialist http://www.economist.com/news/europe/21590919-gap-widening-between-french-presidents-decisiveness-abroad-and-dithering-home-strident

---