Former French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin made a rare appearance in the media, sharing his thoughts on the current political landscape during an episode of France Culture’s “Avec philosophie” on February 15. Jospin, who served as Prime Minister from 1997 to 2002, was invited to discuss the challenges of exercising power at the highest level. He emphasized the importance of political will, noting that it must be based on experience. Jospin highlighted the professional experience of his generation, where many individuals had worked and understood society before entering government.
In addition to professional experience, Jospin emphasized the importance of local political experience in shaping a leader’s understanding of responsibility and power. He also mentioned the value of being part of a vibrant political party where debates and discussions were common. Lastly, he touched on the experience of being in opposition before coming to power, noting the uncertainty and challenges that came with that position. Jospin believes that these experiences are lacking in today’s leaders, which may explain the disconnect between the government and society.
At 86 years old, Jospin criticized the current Macron administration for lacking a sense of state and not understanding society enough. He stressed the importance of respecting the state and highlighted the risks of neglecting or disrupting the high civil service in a country like France. Jospin’s comments, which were largely unnoticed in February, gained traction on social media as the European elections approached in June. Despite retiring from politics after his defeat in the 2002 presidential election, Jospin’s views resonated with many who were disillusioned with the current state of affairs.
Jospin’s observations shed light on the importance of experience, method, and democratic roots in effective governance. He pointed out the need for a deeper understanding of the state and society among today’s leaders, urging them to learn from the mistakes of the past. While acknowledging the inadequacies of the current administration, Jospin called for a renewed focus on upholding the principles of the state and respecting the institutions that form the backbone of French governance.
Overall, Jospin’s rare public appearance offered valuable insights into the challenges of political leadership and the significance of experience in shaping effective governance. His commentary serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the state, society, and the responsibilities that come with political power. As France and the rest of Europe navigate a complex political landscape, Jospin’s words resonate as a call for leaders to reflect on their roles and their duty to govern with integrity and respect for democratic principles.
