Political advancements and influence under the leadership of Hélène de Lauzun

In a thought-provoking podcast recorded on August 28, 2025, Hélène De Lauzun, the Paris correspondent for the European Conservative and author of L'histoire de l'Autriche (The History of Austria), delved into the historical roots and modern expressions of conservatism in France.

The conversation, between Hélène and an unnamed individual named Mark, explored the complexities of conservatism in France, a nation that has fragmented into Bonapartist, liberal, Catholic, and counter-revolutionary traditions.

Hélène discussed the current landscape in France, which is polarized between Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance and Marine Le Pen's far-right populism. The conservative movement, represented mainly by the conservative Republicans and figures like Michel Barnier, has struggled to assert stable leadership. This contrasts with Macron's coalition-building approach and Le Pen's nationalist challenge.

The discussion also touched upon the conservative faction's support for budget austerity measures, which have sparked widespread opposition and political instability. Prime Minister François Bayrou's failed austerity attempts and loss of parliamentary support serve as examples of this struggle.

Hélène and Mark also considered the potential impact of secularism and globalism on conservatism in France. The rise of the National Rally is being questioned as a true conservative revival or a populist deviation. The conversation centred around whether conservatism can reclaim its historical depth in a nation increasingly defined by these forces.

The pre-Revolutionary legacy of France was a focus of the discussion, with Hélène sharing insights from her intellectual journey as a historian. The podcast also explored the uniting or dividing factors of conservative thought in the present day.

Emmanuel Macron, a figure who reflects ideals of conservatism in France, and Marine Le Pen, a figure who challenges these ideals, were also discussed in the context of their roles in shaping the political landscape of France.

The podcast concluded with a reflection on the rise of the National Rally and its implications for conservative ideals in France. The conversation serves as a timely exploration of the state of conservatism in one of Europe's most influential nations.