Macron unveils new centre-right government – Europe reacts

France has unveiled its new government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier. The country had been plunged into chaos after a snap election – called by President Emmanuel Macron – saw a surge in far-right support, that then led to the then Prime Minister Gabriel Attal stepping down. The decision to call a snap election – just ahead of the Paris Olympics – led to widespread backlash and political upheaval across France. 

Despite a new cabinet, stability and calm are not guaranteed. Most of the newly appointed cabinet members come from Emmanuel Macron’s centre-right camp and the conservative Les Républicains despite the left-wing alliance NFP having won the most seats in the parliamentary elections. 

Thousands of people protested in cities across France in response to the cabinet.