Sophie Petter, the Economist's Paris bureau chief, unpacks the surprising outcomes of France's elections, revealing a fragmented political landscape and the challenges facing the left. Tom Gardner, Africa correspondent, delves into the transformative Basketball Africa League, discussing its potential to reshape sports on the continent and elevate local talent. Meanwhile, Anne Rowe honors Ángeles Flores Peón, the last militiawoman of Spain's Second Republic, reflecting on her legacy of resilience and activism during a tumultuous era.
France's left-wing alliance emerges as the leading bloc in recent election results, complicating government formation.
Expanding the Basketball Africa League with NBA's involvement aims to boost local talent and African economies.
Deep dives
The Economist: French Election Results and Political Shifts
France's recent election results showed surprising outcomes with Marine Le Pen's party being bumped to third place. The left-wing alliance, led by Jean-Luc Melanchon, emerged as the leading bloc without a clear majority. President Macron's centrists secured the second position, creating a situation where forming a government becomes a challenging task.
Basketball Africa League and Its Impact on African Sports
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is making waves as Africa's first continent-wide professional sports league. NBA's involvement in the league signifies a significant step in expanding into new markets and fostering talent locally. With the aim to retain talented Africans on the continent, the BAL is seen as a potential revenue source for countries in Africa, boosting domestic economies and promoting the growth of basketball in the region.
Angeles Flores Peón: A Life Dedicated to Socialism and Activism
Angeles Flores Peón, a dedicated socialist activist, endured hardships and imprisonment for her beliefs during Spain's civil war era. Her commitment to socialism, stemming from familial influences and personal experiences, led to her active involvement in feeding troops on the front lines and promoting socialist causes. Despite enduring political trials and exile, Angeles remained a staunch advocate for socialism and women's rights, emphasizing the importance of remembering the Civil War's impact on Spain's history.
A tactical ploy to diminish the chances for Marine Le Pen’s hard-right National Rally has worked—a surprise result that puts the left in front, but no party in charge. Despite sporting passions in Africa, continental leagues have fizzled; a passion for basketball may soon change that (9:25). And remembering Ángeles Flórez Peón, the last militiawoman who defended Spain’s Second Republic (17:26).