Manon Aubry Urges Left-Wing Unity on Antifascism Amid Political Violence Debate in France

The political landscape in France is witnessing intense debate over the rise in political violence and the response of the left, particularly from antifascist factions. On February 23, Manon Aubry, a Member of the European Parliament representing La France Insoumise, emphasized the necessity for the left to unify clearly around antifascist principles. Speaking on the program "Lundi c'est politique," she called on the Socialist Party (PS) to explicitly support antifascism, underscoring that any leftist alliance must be grounded on this common front.

Aubry's statements came in the wake of the death of identity activist Quentin Deranque in Lyon, a case that has triggered significant political discourse. She condemned all violent methods, especially the grievous act of beating a man on the ground, expressing her commitment to justice in this matter. Responding to former President François Hollande's criticism of Jean-Luc Mélenchon’s continued backing of the antifascist group Jeune Garde, Aubry rejected attempts to weaken La France Insoumise through this tragedy, insisting, "I will never throw the antifascist movement under the bus in our country."

Beyond the political calls for unity, a broader discussion examines whether political violence is indeed escalating in France or if the perception is shifting. Insights from the 2021 book "Violences Politiques en France" by Isabelle Sommier, François Audigier, and Xavier Crettiez, published by Presses de Sciences Po, delve into this issue, questioning whether the rise in visibility of these incidents corresponds to an actual increase in violence or a changed societal relationship to such acts.

This debate coincides with heightened political tensions, where the left grapples with the balance between robust antifascist activism and repudiation of violence. The conversation underscores the urgency expressed by Aubry for solidarity within the left anchored on antifascist ideals, coupled with a firm repudiation of violent behavior. Discussions continue as the political community and public await justice in the Deranque case and a cohesive antifascist stance from all left-wing parties.