The French Prime Minister

Abstract

The French political system is dominated by the President. Since 1958 and the triumphal return of de Gaulle to the centre of the political stage, the presidency has become the focus of attention for the public, the media and the political elite alike. It is a much coveted institution. Presidential hopefuls prepare their election campaigns years in advance. The election of a new President is usually met with euphoria by the successful candidate’s supporters, even if the candidate himself has to keep his sang-froid. Following a presidential election, there is the feeling that things will change. There is the belief that problems will be solved. The presidency is the keystone of the system. Presidents no longer simply open flower shows. They take decisions which affect the lives of everyone in the country. Indeed, in recent presidential commitments to defend Germany from invasion, in presidential decisions to send forces to the Gulf and in the President’s control over France’s nuclear arsenal, presidential decisions affect more than just the lives of the French.