THE QUESTION
Does it matter who the next French president is, or is France doomed to decline?
FROM THE PANEL
New Energy at the Ballot Box
France is showing strong commitment to the democratic process, and that process is bearing fruit. This first round of voting has been characterized by many novelties, including high voter turnout and two winners from a new generation of politicians.
Miriam Leitao Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |Apr 25, 2007 at 9:52 AM
Leadership Matters
Of course it matters how and by whom a country is led. Nothing is predetermined, in France no more than in the U.S. Chirac has played the French game in Europe poorly -- as Bush has throughout the world. But does anybody believe America cannot recover?
Thomas Kleine-Brockhoff Germany |Apr 24, 2007 at 8:03 AM
France to Rebound with New Generation
The French want change, and it is change that they fear. But whoever becomes the next president, there will be a generational change.
Christine Ockrent Paris, France |Apr 23, 2007 at 1:06 PM
It's Cyclical, France Will Be Back
France's society and demographic fabric have been changing. This year's elections already show increased voter turnout from first-time voters -- minority and immigrant communities. France may be at the end of a cyclical decline, ready to move into a new era.
Ali Ettefagh Tehran, Iran |Apr 23, 2007 at 11:55 AM
Not Decline, But Rupture with the Past
The moment when people start saying that a country is “doomed to decline” is generally a good time to buy its stock. France suffers from a paralysis common to many mature developed countries, but its population may be ready to elect and outsider with the power to change that.
Bill Emmott Great Britain |Apr 23, 2007 at 10:48 AM
French Kids Are Coming
The Anglo-Saxon market economy is widely regarded as superior to other economic models, including the French, in many ways. But the French system has succeeded in the single most important realm: producing future generations.
Mikio Ikuma Japan |Apr 23, 2007 at 10:36 AM
Elect a Woman President
It always matters (a bit) who the elected politicians are, as they have the power to shape the future of any country. But they are limited in what they can do by short terms in office -- and in the end, show me one country that isn't doomed.
Miklos Vamos Budapest, Hungary |Apr 23, 2007 at 10:32 AM
READER RESPONSE


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