The growing prominence of Elnet (European Leadership Network) in French politics is now undeniable. Yesterday in Paris, this pro-Israel lobbying group gathered nearly 2,000 attendees, including several ministers and leading figures from the French political landscape. The event, centered around the theme “For the Republic, For France, Against Islamism”, underscores Elnet’s increasing sway over national decision-makers.
Among the speakers were Manuel Valls, Bruno Retailleau, and Éric Danon—regulars at such platforms. These figures, known for their strong stances on security and international affairs, illustrate Elnet’s ability to rally high-ranking political support. Officially, the organization presents itself as an “independent network” aimed at “strengthening relations between France, Europe, and Israel.” Unofficially, however, its ambitions appear more far-reaching: to become a European counterpart to AIPAC, the powerful pro-Israel lobby in the United States.
A Growing Political Influence
For several years, Elnet has been forging close ties with the French elite. In 2022, journalist Georges Malbrunot highlighted in his book Le Déclassement français (France’s Decline) the organization’s deep-rooted connections with the city of Nice and its surrounding municipalities. This local presence is just one example among many of Elnet’s growing influence within France’s decision-making circles.
Additionally, a recent Mediapart investigation revealed that since 2017, Elnet has facilitated all-expenses-paid trips to Israel for over a hundred French parliamentarians. These visits, which openly serve an influence strategy, aim to strengthen bilateral relations and familiarize French lawmakers with Israeli positions on key geopolitical issues in the Middle East.
A Dynamic That Raises Questions
Elnet’s rise comes at a time when security, counter-Islamism efforts, and international relations are central to political discourse. The sheer scale of its latest gathering, featuring numerous influential figures, further illustrates its growing weight in these debates. This trend raises broader questions about the evolution of lobbying in France and the role of organizations like Elnet in shaping political priorities.
As global diplomatic dynamics shift, the influence of pro-Israel networks in France appears set to grow, mirroring developments in the United States. The question remains: how far will this ascent go, and what long-term implications will it have for French foreign policy?
The Rise of Algerophobia in France: A Deliberate Strategy?
As public discourse in France becomes increasingly polarized, another phenomenon is gaining traction: a pronounced surge in Algerophobia within political circles and media outlets associated with Vincent Bolloré. Far from being a mere coincidence, this rising hostility fits into a broader narrative in which Algeria is increasingly portrayed as a threat—whether diplomatic, economic, or security-related.
Yet, this antagonism is hardly new. Anti-Algerian sentiment runs deep in certain segments of French society, particularly among those nostalgic for the colonial era or those whose families were directly affected by the painful legacy of the Algerian War. This historical burden, which still haunts part of France’s collective memory, continues to shape perceptions and fuel a persistent mistrust of Algeria and its influence.
Algeria: The New Scapegoat of the Radical Right
In recent years, a hostile rhetoric toward Algeria has gained momentum in certain media outlets and among some political figures. CNews, Europe 1, and Le Journal du Dimanche—all under the control of Bolloré—frequently amplify inflammatory discourse about Algiers, emphasizing alleged Algerian interference in France, the role of Algerian-origin immigration, and the exacerbation of historical tensions.
This narrative resonates strongly within the hard-right factions of the French political spectrum, particularly among figures like Éric Zemmour, Marion Maréchal, and certain members of Les Républicains, who regularly denounce what they perceive as “Algerian influence in France.”
A Convergence of Interests with Elnet?
While Elnet does not explicitly position itself as a player in this anti-Algerian campaign, it is worth questioning whether its interests align with those fueling mistrust toward Algiers.
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A Strategic Divide: Algeria has historically maintained close ties with Palestine—a stance that runs counter to Elnet’s objectives.
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A Latent Geopolitical Clash: Algeria’s growing international presence, particularly its rapprochement with Russia and China, poses a challenge to certain Western and Israeli ambitions in the region.
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A Security Narrative at Play: The fight against radical Islamism, a recurring theme in Elnet’s events, is sometimes used to frame Algeria within a broader climate of fear, despite the country’s own struggles against extremist movements.
A Strategic Repositioning of France?
France now finds itself at a geopolitical crossroads. Its relationship with Algeria remains deeply complex, shaped by colonial history and economic interests. However, the growing influence of certain lobbying groups and media conglomerates is steering this relationship toward an increasingly confrontational stance.
Though Elnet officially focuses on strengthening Franco-Israeli ties, it may indirectly contribute to this shift by supporting political and media figures who advocate for a break with Algeria.
The rise of Algerophobia in France is not merely a passing trend; it is part of a broader struggle for influence, where multiple forces are at play. The fundamental question remains: is this strategic shift truly in France’s best interest, or is it driven by external influences seeking to redefine the nation’s alliances and priorities?
By Belgacem Merbah
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