Michel Barnier, a seasoned French politician and former European Union Brexit negotiator, was appointed as France’s new prime minister in September 2024 by President Emmanuel Macron. Barnier, 73, is a veteran of the conservative Les Républicains (LR) party and has held various significant roles in French and European politics, including serving as European Commissioner and France's foreign minister. His most prominent role was as the chief negotiator for the EU during the Brexit talks between 2016 and 2021.
Barnier's appointment comes after a period of political instability, following Macron’s call for snap parliamentary elections in July 2024. The elections left France’s National Assembly deeply divided, with no party holding a clear majority. Macron chose Barnier, a figure respected across the political spectrum, in hopes of stabilizing the political situation and forming a unifying government. Barnier’s immediate challenges include navigating a fractured parliament composed of left-wing, centrist, and far-right factions, while facing a confidence vote to solidify his leadership.
Barnier is known for his pragmatic approach and deep experience in negotiations, making him a strategic choice to bridge divides in France’s contentious political climate.