1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
Live TV
Latest audioLatest videos
In focus
Russia's war in UkraineIsrael-Hamas warIndia elections

France: Reviving former glory

April 1, 2011

Taking the lead in the conflict in Libya has paid off politically for President Sarkozy. Many French now see him as a dashing champion of freedom.

https://p.dw.com/p/RE9o
Image: DW
G.jpg
Image: DW

In France, it’s considered a question of honor to defend human rights and democracy – militarily, if need be. Even the opposition lends its support.

NATO has meanwhile officially assumed command of the Libya mission, but Nicolas Sarkozy is skilled at playing that down and his own role up. He has also distanced himself from the Germans and pacifism. France is trying to recover its historical influence in North Africa, on a new basis.