Oprichter Front National, or Founder of the National Front, is a political party in France that was founded by Jean-Marie Le Pen in 1972. Le Pen, a former military officer and member of various right-wing political groups, established the party with the goal of promoting nationalist and conservative policies in France.
The National Front quickly gained popularity among voters who were dissatisfied with the mainstream political parties and their perceived failures to address issues such as immigration, crime, and economic stagnation. Le Pen’s charismatic leadership and provocative rhetoric also played a role in attracting supporters to the party.
Under Le Pen’s leadership, the National Front advocated for stricter immigration controls, increased law and order measures, and protectionist economic policies. The party also espoused nationalist and anti-globalist sentiments, rejecting the European Union and advocating for a more independent and sovereign France.
Despite its controversial positions and far-right ideology, the National Front achieved electoral success in France, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. Le Pen himself ran for president multiple times, reaching the second round of the election in 2002, where he was ultimately defeated by Jacques Chirac.
In recent years, the National Front has undergone a rebranding effort under the leadership of Marine Le Pen, the daughter of Jean-Marie Le Pen. Marine Le Pen has sought to distance the party from its extremist image and broaden its appeal to a wider range of voters. The party has also changed its name to National Rally in an effort to shed its negative connotations.
Despite these efforts, the National Front continues to face criticism and controversy for its far-right positions and association with xenophobic and racist rhetoric. The party’s success in recent elections, including the 2017 presidential election where Marine Le Pen reached the second round, has raised concerns about the rise of populist and nationalist movements in France and Europe more broadly.
In conclusion, the founder of the National Front, Jean-Marie Le Pen, has left a lasting impact on French politics with his creation of a party that has challenged the mainstream political establishment and pushed for a more nationalist and conservative agenda. The National Front’s evolution under Marine Le Pen’s leadership will continue to shape the political landscape in France for years to come.