News » Expert Comment (tag [French Studies])

Sarkozy's political future 'very bleak', says Dr David Lees

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 14:25:41 GMT

There is long road ahead for Sarkozy to avoid time in prison and follow the example of France’s wartime leader Philippe Pétain, says Dr David Lees of the University of Warwick's Department of French Studies, after he was found guilty in corruption trial.

Valery Giscard d’Estaing: Dr David Lees comments on a 'modernising if controversial' President of France

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 09:55:56 GMT

Dr David Lees from the School of Modern Languages and Cultures comments on news reports that former president of France Valery Giscard d’Estaing has died.

The damage has already been done for François Fillon - Dr David Lees comments

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 10:47:00 GMT

Dr David Lees, expert in French politics from the School of Modern Languages and Cultures, discusses Former French Prime Minister François Fillon’s appearance in court for his role in a "fake jobs" scandal.

The latest in the French protests, will punishment work? Expert comment

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 14:37:00 GMT

Dr Alex Corcos from the department of French Studies comments on the latest on the protests in France. As PM Edouard Philippe has announced plans to punish those who hold unsanctioned protests following the weeks of unrest caused by the Yellow Vest movement.

Macron and the violent protests in France - expert comment

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 10:19:00 GMT

Dr Oliver Davis, Reader in French Studies at the University of Warwick comments on President Macron's approach to the 'yellow vest' protests.

"Le Grand Kilo" - expert comment

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 11:22:08 GMT

"The kilogram was first introduced by the French revolutionary government in 1795, a symbol of a more enlightened and rational future." Dr James Poskett,Assistant Professor in the History of Science and Technology at the University of Warwick, explains why scientists should take heart from today's vote on redefining the kilogramme.

"Macron might be right on Pétain, but the French don’t want to hear it" - Dr David Lees

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 10:13:06 GMT

"Macron might be right on Pétain, but the French don’t want to hear it" - says Dr David Lees, of the University of Warwick's School of Modern Languages and Cultures.

"French President Emmanuel Macron sought to praise French First World War military leaders in a commemoration ceremony yesterday (7 November 2018) and argued that even Philippe Pétain deserved some credit for his role in leading French forces. Pétain led the French defence of Verdun in 1916 and is associated with the rotation of front-line troops in response to a threatened mutiny by French conscripts. In describing Pétain as a great soldier, Macron also argued that Pétain had made some ‘disastrous choices’ in the Second World War."

Liberty, Luck and Macron’s US tour

Thu, 26 Apr 2018 07:11:59 GMT

The occasionally embarrassing bromance staged between Presidents Trump and Macron during the latter’s State Visit has suited both parties writes Seán Hand Deputy Professor of French Studies and Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Europe).

Emmanuel Macron seeks to win over Angela Merkel on EU reforms - expert comment

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 12:14:22 GMT

French President Emmanuel Macron is in Berlin for talks with Angela Merkel aimed at winning support from the German chancellor for his ambitious reform plans for the European Union.Professor Seán Hand discusses his chances of success.

Insurrection over chocolate spread - expert comment from Dr David Lees

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:54:20 GMT

"The French are well known for their tradition of revolt and rebellion but few would predict such open insurrection over chocolate spread." Dr David Lees from French Studies comments on France's 'Nutella Riots'.