France's Wake-Up Call: Ex-EU Commissioner Thierry Breton Warns 'Something is Wrong With Us'

In a candid and revealing interview, former European Commissioner Thierry Breton delivered a stark and unsettling assessment of his home country, France, declaring unequivocally that 'something is wrong with us in France.' His remarks, made in the lead-up to crucial European elections, have sent ripples through the French political and economic landscape, igniting a much-needed national introspection on the nation's declining competitiveness and burgeoning economic challenges.

Breton, a figure with extensive experience in both business and European governance, did not mince words, painting a sobering picture of a nation struggling to maintain its footing on the global stage.

He drew direct comparisons with Germany, highlighting France's alarming slide in key economic indicators, particularly in areas of industrial output and overall competitiveness within the robust European Union single market. This frank assessment underscores a growing concern among economists and policymakers about France's structural weaknesses.

A core aspect of Breton's critique revolved around France's persistent struggle with public finances.

He pointed to the nation's spiralling public debt and chronic deficits as clear symptoms of deeper, systemic issues. Unlike its European neighbours who have often pursued fiscal prudence, France, according to Breton, has become overly reliant on state intervention and public spending as primary drivers of its economy, potentially stifling private sector innovation and organic growth.

The former Commissioner emphasized that this isn't merely a cyclical downturn but rather a profound structural problem requiring radical solutions.

He advocated strongly for deep-seated reforms, particularly within the industrial sector and public administration. For years, France has grappled with the challenge of modernizing its economy, streamlining bureaucracy, and fostering an environment conducive to business growth and job creation – issues that Breton believes are now reaching a critical juncture.

Breton’s comments also implicitly, and sometimes explicitly, served as a commentary on the policies of President Emmanuel Macron’s government.

While Macron came to power promising significant reforms and a revitalization of the French economy, Breton’s statements suggest that these efforts have either not gone far enough or have not yielded the desired results in addressing the fundamental imbalances. The upcoming European elections, therefore, take on added significance, serving as a potential referendum on the direction France is heading, both domestically and within the broader European context.

His message resonated as a powerful call for a collective national effort.

It's an appeal for France to confront uncomfortable truths, move beyond complacency, and embark on a serious path of reform and self-reassessment. Breton's 'something is wrong' isn't just a lament; it's an urgent plea for action, urging France to reclaim its economic vitality and robust position at the heart of Europe before its challenges become insurmountable.