‘Radical’ or ‘hero’?: France debates leftist candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon

Jean-Luc Mélenchon is presenting France Unbowed’s programme as he seeks to become the left’s main challenger to Marine Le Pen in next year’s presidential election. His growing support among protesters has made him a prominent figure, while his proposals have fuelled debate over whether he is a champion of social change or a radical with impractical plans.

The programme calls for lowering the retirement age to 60, raising the monthly minimum wage to €1,700 and taking France out of NATO. It also proposes higher taxes on wealthy people and companies, more state control of parts of the economy and changing how France repays debt held by the European Central Bank. Supporters say these measures would address inequality and the cost of living; critics warn that high public debt and borrowing costs could make them difficult to fund.