The Intelligence from The Economist Battle acts: France beefs up its forces
Apr 2, 2021
Sophie Petter, the Paris bureau chief for The Economist, discusses France's significant military transformation as it prepares for potential large-scale conflicts rather than just peacekeeping. She examines the implications of a global population decline post-pandemic and its economic impacts. Additionally, the podcast highlights the ongoing debate over the Benin Bronzes, exploring the complexities of cultural restitution and the push for their return to Nigeria, shedding light on issues of colonial history and ethical ownership in the art world.
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France's Military Shift
- The French armed forces, after years of peacekeeping and counterinsurgency, are preparing for major conflict.
- This represents a seismic shift in their strategic vision.
Preparing for Larger Conflicts
- France's military is preparing for larger-scale conflicts, necessitating reforms in recruitment, equipment, and training.
- This "hardening" of the army is driven by the anticipation of a more dangerous world.
Potential Adversaries and Strategic Stretch
- France's military anticipates future conflicts with potential adversaries like Russia, Turkey, or North African countries.
- They are already stretched with deployments in various regions, highlighting the need for strategic prioritization.
