How could someone be more European than Hessel by origin, shared culture and values - his cross-border, supranational vision making us ashamed of our weaknesses, our lack of vision and courage?
The present crisis raises a number of crucial questions, for France, Mali, the EU and our globalised world.
On Sunday November 25, the Catalan elections illustrated the fact that, in politics, nothing is ever sure. But also, and more importantly, that nothing is ever as simple as politicians would like it to be.
Former president Sarkozy's UMP party is torn apart by the trial of strength between former PM Fillon and Party chair Copé. Both have claimed victory in last week's extremely tight election, pointing to several cases of fraud. Many fear this might result in an implosion of the party and a reconfigu
It is too easy for armchair analysts, in the cosyness of their far away study, to deliver a death sentence to the historical reputation of a man who did what he thought was the only, the final thing to be done.
As Catalans massively take to the streets of Barcelona to demand independence, we are reminded that the Catalonian question is far from settled. And the current economic crisis exacerbates old, underlying tensions.
Nationalism, chauvinism and greed have overtaken the Olympic games to an absurd degree, says Patrice de Beer.
The new French president has consolidated his authority with a decisive win in the legislative elections. But the challenges he faces now get much steeper
Sarko’s lack of fluency in English will probably stop him from joining the even better-paid world circuit of guest speakers, unlike Bill Clinton or Tony Blair.
The aftermath of the presidential election is also the prelude to a parliamentary vote whose outcome is crucial to Francois Hollande's leadership, says Patrice de Beer.
A new socialist president brings the promise of change to France and Europe, says Patrice de Beer.
