Mary Fitzgerald, Monocle's North Africa correspondent, discusses Morocco's booming tourism, driven by its European diaspora despite safety challenges for female travelers. Alice Whittington, a DJ and curator, shares her journey in compiling a vibrant album of Southeast Asian pop music, highlighting the region's cultural evolution post-independence. The chat also touches on the leadership changes in both politics and the arts, weaving a narrative of innovation against the backdrop of rich, historical legacies.
François Bayrou's appointment as Prime Minister reflects a strategic effort by Macron to unify the political landscape and mitigate far-right influence.
Mathieu Blasi's selection as Chanel's new creative director signifies a shift towards innovation, blending modern design with the brand's rich heritage.
Deep dives
France's New Prime Minister: François Bayrou
François Bayrou has been appointed as France's new Prime Minister, succeeding Michel Barnier amidst speculation over the leadership changes in French politics. Known as a centrist and a seasoned politician, Bayrou previously ran for the presidency multiple times and has been a long-time supporter of President Macron. His selection represents a strategic shift, with the aim of appealing to a broader political landscape and avoiding reliance on far-right factions. The discussion around Bayrou highlights concerns over whether he can navigate the divided National Assembly, where political maneuvering will play a critical role in passing legislation.
Chanel's New Creative Director: Mathieu Blasi
Mathieu Blasi has been named the new creative director of Chanel, following a prolonged period of speculation about the position. Previously leading design at Bottega Veneta, Blasi's appointment marks a significant shift for Chanel, as it welcomes an external perspective to reimagine its storied brand. The decision to bring in fresh leadership signals Chanel's commitment to innovation and modernization while balancing the heritage and distinct identity of the brand. As Blasi prepares for his new role, expectations are high for him to invigorate Chanel's offerings with inventive designs and contemporary craftsmanship.
Morocco's Tourism Boom
Morocco celebrates a record 15.9 million tourists for the year, reflecting a remarkable 20% increase, largely attributed to its Moroccan diaspora visiting from countries like France and Belgium. The surge in visitor numbers comes as Morocco seeks to bolster its tourism industry in anticipation of co-hosting the World Cup in 2030, prompting discussions on necessary infrastructure improvements. The country faces challenges from past incidents, including a devastating earthquake and terrorist attacks, yet it appears to be recovering and attracting tourists with a growing reputation for accessibility and safety. Concerns surrounding over-tourism are also being addressed as Morocco embraces sustainable practices intended to preserve its cultural and environmental integrity.
Reviving Southeast Asian Pop Culture
The album 'A-OK Disco, Boogie, Pop and Funk from the South China Sea' showcases a diverse collection of music from Southeast Asia's 1970s and 1980s, curated by DJ Alice Whittington. This compilation highlights the intersection of national identity and the emerging music industry in the region during a transformative era for these countries. Whittington's efforts to recover these tracks underscore the cultural significance of pop music in shaping collective identities post-independence, despite the challenges of language and historical censorship. The project not only celebrates the genre's vibrancy but also serves as a reminder of the rich, interconnected histories of the nations bordering the South China Sea.
Emmanuel Macron names François Bayrou as the country’s new prime minister. Will he last longer than Michel Barnier? We ask our Paris bureau chief, Simon Bouvier. Then: Chanel has a new artistic director and a musical compilation album from the South China Sea.