Editorial: Le Monde

• The freedoms of assembly and expression are essential in times of tension for preserving both democracy and public order.
• Tragedies in the Middle East increase tensions in France, mainly because of cohabitation of larger Jewish and Muslim communities.
• Jean-Luc Mélenchon has centred his campaign on the situation in Gaza, a decision prompting the vote from working-class districts.
• The leader of La France insoumise (LFI) has had to cancel conferences in universities for security reasons.
• The state appears to be granting the contradictors a veto right over a public meeting.
• Repeated prohibitions fuel Mélenchon’s victimization posture, who is struggling in the polls and facing the ambitions of his rivals.
• Emmanuel Macron expressed a desire for everyone to be able to express their voice, including Mélenchon, but his credibility is questioned following the dissolution of the Soulèvements de la Terre.

Conclusion: Balancing freedom of expression and assembly with public safety is crucial. Divisive stances and repeated prohibitions only augment political and social tensions.

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