Gabriel Attal Shatters Barriers: France’s Youngest and First Openly Gay Prime Minister Takes the Helm

Gabriel Attal, at 34, becomes France's youngest prime minister and the first openly gay man to hold the position. Known for his swift rise within Macron's party, he outlined priorities of education, economy, and youth development in his inaugural speech. Attal's appointment comes amid Macron's efforts to rejuvenate his political standing.

Editorsdesk Otto M. February 18, 2024 2 min read

At 34, Gabriel Attal’s Historic Appointment as France’s Prime Minister Marks a Milestone for LGBTQ Representation in Global Politics

In a groundbreaking move, French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Gabriel Attal, the 34-year-old Minister of Education and National Youth, as the country’s new prime minister. Attal’s historic appointment makes him not only France’s youngest-ever prime minister but also the first openly gay man to hold this prestigious position, solidifying his status as one of the world’s most prominent LGBTQ politicians.

Attal, a rising star in Macron’s Renaissance Party, gained public recognition as the government spokesman during the pandemic. His political career has ascended rapidly, progressing from leading the Ministry of Public Works and Public Accounts to becoming the Minister of Education. Known for his shape-shifting political identity, aligning with the center-left Socialist Party before joining Macron’s centrist movement, Attal brings a unique perspective to his new role.

In his inaugural speech, Attal outlined key priorities, including education, inflation, the liberalization of the French economy, and youth development. Emphasizing education as “the mother of our battles,” he pledged to dedicate all necessary means for its success. As prime minister, Attal will lead the formation of a new government and drive legislative initiatives aligned with Macron’s agenda, although the presidency retains the majority of power.

Attal replaces Elisabeth Borne, who resigned after a tumultuous 20-month tenure marked by unpopular retirement reforms and urban unrest. Attal commended Borne’s “action and courage” during a handover ceremony and expressed gratitude for her contributions to the country. Borne, who became the first female prime minister in three decades in 2022, faced challenges in passing laws due to her party’s failure to secure an absolute majority in parliamentary elections.

As Macron seeks a political reset amid declining popularity, Attal’s appointment reflects a strategic move ahead of European elections and the Paris Olympics. Surveys indicate Attal’s popularity among the French public, while far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticizes the cabinet reshuffle as a “childish ballet of ambitions and egos.” The new government’s success and impact on public sentiment will be closely watched in the coming months.

Listen to this Article now