France is on the edge of a political cliff as the country votes in one of its most significant elections in years. The far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, is hoping for a historic victory, but political stalemate seems more likely.
After the RN’s first-round victory in snap parliamentary elections last Sunday, over 200 rival candidates dropped out to give others a better chance of defeating the far right. Voting began in mainland France at 08:00 (06:00 GMT) with the first exit polls expected 12 hours later.
President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to call for a snap vote in response to the RN’s victory in European elections has backfired, with concerns of violence in Paris and other cities. The planned protest outside the National Assembly on Sunday evening has been banned.
The outcome of the election could have far-reaching consequences, with fears that a far-right government could compromise the running of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The balance of power in the French parliament is at stake, with projections suggesting the RN may not secure an outright majority.
As the country enters uncharted territory, various scenarios are being considered, including a grand coalition involving most parties except for the radical France Unbowed party. The immediate concern is to have a government in place during the Olympic Games, with the possibility of a national unity government being formed until the end of the Paris Games.
The future of France hangs in the balance as the country waits for the results of this pivotal election.
