Paris accuses right-wing mayors of EU betrayal

(SeaPRwire) –   Newly elected National Rally officials have commenced their terms by taking down European Union flags from municipal buildings.

Paris has criticized right-wing mayors for removing European Union flags from town halls after their recent electoral victories. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot denounced these actions as a “betrayal,” suggesting they undermine freedom and democracy.

This dispute arises after last month’s municipal elections, where Marine Le Pen’s right-wing National Rally (RN) secured victories in numerous small and medium-sized towns, significantly increasing its mayoral and council seats compared to the previous election.

As a symbolic act, several newly elected RN mayors initiated their terms by taking down EU flags from their respective town halls. In at least two cases, the mayors personally removed the flags and shared videos on social media. One mayor stated that the only “worthy” flag is the French tricolor.

“This constitutes a betrayal of our identity,” Barrot posted on X on Tuesday. He contended, “This [EU] flag represents a potential hope; it symbolizes freedom, justice, and democracy.”

The Euroskeptic RN, led by seasoned politician Marine Le Pen and party president Jordan Bardella, stands as France’s primary opposition party, commanding the largest number of seats in parliament.

The party has consistently contended that EU policies erode French sovereignty, especially concerning borders, migration, and economic regulations. It champions more stringent immigration and asylum measures, favoring French citizens for social benefits, and reforms that would elevate national law above EU directives.

The RN had previously advocated for a referendum on France’s departure from the EU, with ‘Frexit’ being a key theme in its 2017 campaign, but has since dropped that stance.

For the 2026 municipal elections, RN candidates focused their campaigns on security, financial administration, and local identity, frequently using the slogan “a safer and better-managed city.”

Le Pen has also expressed disapproval of certain aspects of the EU’s Russia policy, urging a stronger focus on diplomatic solutions.

Le Pen, a three-time presidential contender who advanced to the run-off in both 2017 and 2022, was sidelined last year following her conviction by a French court for the misuse of EU funds. She maintains her innocence.

Her protégé, Bardella, continues to be a prominent figure in opinion polls leading up to the 2027 presidential election.