Shaking Up French Politics

“What I like about her is that she doesn’t hesitate to shake things up” - Wall Street Journal, Feb. 10/11

Segolene Royal has overcome obstacles in the past year that most politicians will not face in a lifetime. In France, she is currently barely trailing Sarkozy, according to recent opinion polls. While many love her, and many find something to critique, no one can deny that she has used unique tactics and portrayed unwavering resolve, making her a Level 5 Leader (according to Jim Collin’s specifications) in all capacities.

Obviously, as a woman, Segolene confronted initial skepticism when announcing her candidacy, including snide remarks from opponents, frequent appearances in political cartoons, and jokes regarding her attire – often too sexy. Segolene rebutted this initial challenge by using her womanhood to her advantage as discussed in my first blog. After combating this initial challenge, Segolene faced increasing controversy due to her lack of experience in French politics, yet she has turned to the people and created a campaign based on “participatory democracy.” Segolene stated in many speeches: “It’s the French people who have given me legitimacy…after the Paris Match article, there was a popular uprising. The French people wanted me.” Not only has she turned to the people through her words, her actions have expressed the same resolve. Segolene has suggested implementing citizens juries who would judge politicians, windfall profits tax on oil companies, raising the minimum wage to $3000 a month, and consolidation of the 35-hr workweek. Segolene also has given the people of Poitou-Charentes (her former political position) a bigger role in government by allowing students, parents, and teachers to vote via secret ballot on how to spend 10% of the schools budget. Her consistent recognition of the people and determination to give the populace a say in politics (through the citizen jury, deciding budgets, etc.) she illustrates a humbleness that is rare in politics, particularly when compared to her rival, Sarkozy who uses more traditional political tactics.

Even after all of these initiatives, criticism did not stop.

Neither did Segolene Royal.

On February 11th, Segolene presented 100 proposals designed to counter the charge of her “lack of initiatives.” These proposals include measures that have a strong social component, such as raising pensions and reforming social housing. She has based these proposals on three main pillars of “economic development, and efficient social and environmental action.” She illustrates the “plow horse” nature depicted of a Level Five Leader, she is relentless and determined to show the French people she has great ideas and the skill set necessary to be president.

She has illustrated an unwavering commitment to show she is ready, innovative, and committed to changing the current trajectory of French politics.

In politics, it is crucial to have a strong support system and ensure that those working for you have your best interest at heart. Recently, a top aide made inappropriate comments regarding the status of Segolene and her partner – the aide was immediately dismissed. Segolene “likes to control all decisions that are taken,” and “she’s not afraid of conflict, She’s not afraid of telling you you’re wrong or if she doesn’t like you, of not shaking your hand, she doesn’t care about protocol.” Traditionally, a Level Five Leader must be self-confident enough to set up their successors for success. All rules change in politics. Segolene has taken the initiative to ensure that all those working for her (the WHO) are working toward the same common goal of getting her into office (the WHAT) – she does what needs to be done to ensure the right people are working with her, regardless of traditional protocol.

Segolene is confident, humble, resolved, determined, and admits when she makes a mistake, for instance when she fumbled regarding her viewpoint on the Iraqi war. She acknowledged what she said, and corrected herself – not blaming anyone for her error.

When asked about the journey of her candidacy, Segolene responded: “I knew the battle would be tough, and we haven’t seen everything yet.”

Segolene is preparing for the un-preparable. She recognizes the struggle and has made clear that her persistence and dedication will not change. She has exhibited extraordinary leadership, and will no doubt, continue to “shake things up.”