French president's absence criticized

As Emmanuel Macron prepares to leave office in six months, international media are scrutinizing his actions and decisions during the recent wave of protests in France. The New York Times noted his absence during the initial stages of the student-led demonstrations, particularly pointing out that he was on a warship off the coast of Brittany on October 6, when hundreds of thousands of people marched in the streets.

Satirical host questions priorities

Jon Stewart, host of the satirical show The Daily Show, expressed surprise that Macron attended a concert by Céline Dion on October 16, just a day before the major protests. Stewart questioned whether the president’s priorities aligned with the needs of a country experiencing significant unrest.

Algerian media criticizes Macron

In Algeria, the pro-government newspaper l'Expression criticized Macron for being "deaf" to the demands of the French people. It also accused the security forces of an "aggressive" approach, suggesting that the government's actions reflect a regime that is "rather undemocratic."

Macron's leadership under review

Beyond the immediate crisis, Macron's nine years in power are being reevaluated. The Guardian described him as a "Jupiterian president," noting that his initially strong leadership has evolved into "arrogance" and "detachment." Spanish newspaper El País highlighted that Macron will be remembered for leaving a France "more divided than ever."

France's image questioned

The recent violence on October 17 has raised concerns about France's global image, with some analysts suggesting the country may be "Third Worldizing." The unrest has sparked debates about whether France still serves as a model for other nations, with questions about who benefits from the chaos and looting that occurred during the protests.

Europe faces potential crisis

Some analysts argue that France is caught in a "vicious circle of impotence and violence," and the upcoming presidential election has the potential to trigger a debt crisis across Europe. The political uncertainty in France is being closely watched by European leaders and financial institutions.