It's May '68 again, and again

To this eternal theme, Paris-based British writer Andrew Hussey brings a new twist in an article that focuses on “the unlikely figurehead of this new popular revolt” - Olivier Besancenot, leader of the NPA (New Anti-Capitalist Party). Contesting the European elections in early June, its impact should be a statistically insignificant 4.5%. As a cultural phenomenon, however, it attracts celebrity supporters including footballer Franck Ribéry and director Ken Loach. More importantly, for 40% French youth, turning away from mainstream politics, it’s the favourite political choice. Something of a “cultural revolution,” the NPA, says one militant “understands this generation better. (…) They know we will never have proper jobs.” “The NPA may not change the world,” concludes Hussey, “but it is already changing French society.”