Macron’s stature sinks in France as it rises abroad
PARIS — In just one year as France’s president, Emmanuel Macron has emerged as a key world player, speaking up for Europe and Western democratic values and striking a surprise friendship with Donald Trump. But Macron has made his biggest impact — and his biggest enemies — at home.
Strikes and protests over his economic reforms have dominated the French landscape in recent weeks, and tens of thousands held a “party” Saturday to share their anger at Macron’s first year in office. Many fear he is trading the French way of life for a profit-focused, American-style worldview.
Both critics and fans agree that Macron’s France has a different feel from the country that handed him the presidency on May 7, 2017.