French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that 34-year-old education minister, Gabriel Attal, will now assume the role of France’s new prime minister.
This groundbreaking appointment not only makes Attal the youngest prime minister in the country but also marks him as the first openly gay man to hold this prestigious position, solidifying his place as one of the world’s most prominent LGBTQ politicians.
During his tenure as education minister, Attal made headlines with a controversial ban on the wearing of the abaya, loose-fitting full-length robes worn by Muslim women, in French public schools.
Attal defended this decision by describing the abaya as “a religious gesture, aimed at testing the resistance of the republic toward the secular sanctuary that school must constitute,” emphasizing his commitment to secularism as the foundation for educational freedom.
His efforts also extended to addressing critical issues within the education system, including raising awareness of bullying in schools and attempting to reform school uniforms. Prior to his role as education minister, Attal served as the government spokesperson and held positions as the minister of public works and public accounts.
French President Macron expressed confidence in Attal’s capabilities, stating, “I know I can count on your energy and your commitment to implement the rearmament and regeneration project that I announced.”
The move comes as Macron’s administration faces declining popularity among French nationals due to strict pension and migration reforms, with polls indicating that Attal is currently the most admired member of the administration.
Analysts suggest that Macron’s strategic decision to appoint Attal as prime minister is an effort to boost popularity ahead of the upcoming European Parliament elections in June.
As the new prime minister, Attal will oversee a new government and play a pivotal role in advancing legislative agendas that align with President Macron’s vision for the nation.
Attal replaces Elisabeth Borne, who resigned from her post on Monday after a tumultuous 20-month tenure.
