The French president has written a letter to the French people to launch the “great national debate,” which is organized by mid-March to try to resolve the yellow vests crisis.
He reminds in the introduction that France is “among all nations, one of the most fraternal and egalitarian.”
“It is also one of the freest, since everyone is protected in their rights and in their freedom of opinion, conscience, belief, or philosophy.”
“A great disturbance has taken hold of minds”
In France, but also in Europe and the world, not only a great concern but also a great disturbance have taken hold of minds. We need to respond with clear ideas,” the president suggests, adding that he “accepts no form of violence,” whether against the people’s representatives, the media, journalists, institutions, or civil servants.
Among the subjects to be discussed are the taxation issue, the organization of the state and public bodies, and how these two subjects interrelate.
The third theme will address ecological transition.
“I have committed to goals for biodiversity preservation and combating climate change and air pollution. Today, no one disputes the urgent necessity to act quickly. The longer we delay questioning ourselves, the more painful these transformations will be,” stresses the head of state.
Finally, the subject of democracy and representation will come.
“This system of representation is the foundation of our Republic, but it must be improved because many do not feel represented after the elections.” This is precisely the problem highlighted by the yellow vests movement, which challenges any power of national representation in particular. Many French elected officials have received threatening and insulting letters, unlike the MEPs who are not among the movement’s targets.
Imposed subjects
“This debate is an unprecedented initiative from which I am firmly determined to draw all conclusions. It is neither an election nor a referendum. It is your personal expression, corresponding to your history, your opinions, your priorities, which is required here, regardless of age or social condition,” concludes the president.
It should be noted that migration issues are hardly mentioned in the last part, contrary to what had been discussed until then. According to opinion polls, it is rather the environmental and economic questions that concern the French above all.
