Socialist Party in Turmoil Over Alliance with La France insoumise Amid Key Congress
The Socialist Party's congress reveals deep internal conflicts over alliance with La France insoumise.
Key Points
- • The 81st congress of the Socialist Party was dominated by discussions about La France insoumise.
- • Olivier Faure warned that focusing solely on LFI could undermine the party's broader objectives.
- • The contentious relationship with LFI is central as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
- • Jean-Luc Mélenchon became a focal point during the debates at the congress.
During its 81st congress held from June 13 to 15, 2025, in Nancy, the French Socialist Party (PS) found itself embroiled in intense debates regarding its potential alliance with the far-left party, La France insoumise (LFI). This meeting, marked by ideological clashes, underscored the internal conflict as party members grappled with their political identity ahead of upcoming elections.
Re-elected PS leader Olivier Faure expressed concerns about the congress devolving into a simple referendum on LFI, stating, "We cannot allow our focus to be solely on LFI, or we risk becoming psychologically beholden to the radical left." Faure's warning illuminates a crucial divide within the party as it prepares for municipal, presidential, and legislative elections, reflecting the broader struggle on the left in France. The question of collaboration with Jean-Luc Mélenchon's LFI has become particularly contentious, indicating deep-seated fears about the party losing its distinct identity.