Paris
To be prime minister of France is “absolute hell,” seven former holders of the office complained to Le Monde this week. In France, the prime minister is appointed by the president, and tends to get all the blame for policy failures and none of the credit for successes. The president gets to speak with kings at state dinners; the prime minister gets to talk to angry striking workers. Edith Cresson said that during her term, the press was “incredibly violent” toward her, “with its slander and its cowardice.” Raymond Barre called the job “a continual harassment,” while Michel Rocard blamed it for his divorce.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
The struggles of Aston MartinIn the Spotlight The car manufacturer, famous for its association with the James Bond franchise, is ‘running out of road’
-
The end of ‘golden ticket’ asylum rightsThe Explainer Refugees lose automatic right to bring family over and must ‘earn’ indefinite right to remain
-
Grecotel Luxme Dama Dama: Greek luxury with a breezy beach vibeThe Week Recommends Rhodes is reimagined in this refined and relaxed resort
