The main candidates for the European elections were invited to present their projects to the CFDT, a major French trade union, with a focus on addressing the absence of the far-right parties. Representing various political parties, including the majority party, the candidates shared their visions for Europe just over two weeks before the June 9th election. The CFDT made a conscious decision to not invite any far-right parties, with the secretary general stating that they do not engage in dialogue with them, but rather combat their ideologies.
The absence of the far-right was highlighted by several candidates during their presentations. Raphaël Glucksmann emphasized the importance of standing against the rise of the far-right across Europe, positioning himself as an alternative to their ideologies. Valérie Hayer also emphasized the need to combat the far-right, stating that the project for Europe is about fighting against the far-right party, the Rassemblement National. Manon Aubry similarly warned of the dangerous implications of the far-right for democracy and proposed to place social issues at the forefront of the political agenda, advocating for taxation of superprofits.
Marie Toussaint, the ecological candidate, echoed concerns about the rise of the far-right in France and Europe, emphasizing the need to counter this with a “green pact”. She criticized the current political climate where ecology and vulnerable populations are often scapegoated, calling for a shift towards prioritizing environmental policies. The CFDT’s decision to exclude the far-right parties from the discussion was praised by the candidates for standing against divisive nationalist rhetoric and promoting a more inclusive and progressive vision for Europe.
While addressing the CFDT, the candidates emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity in the fight against the far-right and the protection of democratic values. They stressed the need to prioritize social issues, women’s rights, and environmental policies in shaping the future of Europe. By excluding the far-right from the discussion, the CFDT sent a strong message against the resurgence of nationalist ideologies and established themselves as champions of progressive values and social justice in Europe.
The candidates’ speeches at the CFDT showcased their commitment to combating the rise of the far-right in Europe and promoting a more inclusive and sustainable vision for the continent. They proposed various strategies to address social inequalities, protect democratic institutions, and prioritize environmental sustainability. By collectively denouncing the far-right and advocating for progressive policies, the candidates demonstrated their dedication to creating a better future for Europe and its citizens. The event highlighted the importance of standing together against divisive ideologies and working towards a more united and equitable European Union.
