French election will impact foreign policy

Significance

Although his party finished third in the election, President Emmanuel Macron will retain control over foreign and security policy. However, Macron’s foreign policy decision-making will now take place against the backdrop of a fragmented and polarised domestic political environment.

Impacts

• With the French and German governments facing major challenges, it will be difficult to forge unity on key EU policies.
• The National Rally (RN)'s influence over the government could be weakened if Marine Le Pen is found guilty of embezzling EU funds.
• France’s economic woes look set to boost the far left and far right’s appeal among voters.