A Public Address by H.E. Jean-Marc Ayrault, Prime Minister of the Republic of France (2012-2014)

In French with English translation

Commentary by Michael Ignatieff, Former leader, of the Liberal Party of Canada; Professor of Practice, Carr Center for Human Rights Policy, Harvard Kennedy School

France today is under heavy pressure from its European partners to reform its social model and reduce its long-standing budget deficit. At the same time, many French citizens doubt that France can achieve sustainable growth by following an austerity program prescribed by what is perceived to be a German-led European Union. At this event, two former political leaders will discuss the politics of reform in France where social change has traditionally come about through crisis or revolution.


Sponsored by: The Consulate General of France in Boston; Ash Center for Deomcratic Governance and Innovation; Contemporary Europe. With the support of the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the United States.

Wednesday, Nov 12th, 2014

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