In an interview with 7sur7, Georges-Louis Bouchez reacted to the AfD's breakthrough in Germany. For our President, this result is worrying, but it cannot be fought with indignation or posturing: democratic parties must respond concretely to citizens' concerns.
“This result is terrifying in many respects, but it is not surprising. Everyone reacts when a symptom of Europe's democratic problem appears, but no one wants to tackle the causes,” stresses Georges-Louis Bouchez.
The President identifies several challenges that traditional parties must have the courage to confront: illegal immigration and integration, the feeling of lost freedom due to the accumulation of regulatory constraints, and the absence of a clear and credible vision for citizens.
At the MR, our answer lies neither in denial nor in the simplistic solutions of the extremes. It involves a firm, coherent and responsible policy: effectively combating illegal immigration and crime, ensuring integration based on respect for our rules and values, preserving freedoms, supporting employment and restoring efficiency to the State.
“As soon as questions of identity are raised, one is systematically branded as far right. Yet everyone needs points of reference, both family and national. Being proud of one's identity does not mean rejecting others,” recalls Georges-Louis Bouchez.
Our position is clear: welcome those who come legally, respect the rules and wish to contribute to our society; but also enforce return decisions for those residing illegally. A credible migration policy is essential to restore trust, strengthen security and prevent extremists from thriving on the failures of public action.
In response to the legitimate concerns of many citizens across Europe, the MR intends to continue offering serious, balanced and clear-cut answers: more security, more freedom, controlled immigration and a State that effectively protects those who respect the rules.