Uncovering the deep-rooted connections between modern media and a historical legacy of nationalist and xenophobic journalism reveals a disturbing trend in today’s media landscape. The recent shift in editorial direction of publications like the Journal du Dimanche under the leadership of Geoffroy Lejeune points to a resurgence of far-right ideologies echoing the dark days of French history.
The Intrigue of Ideological Alignment
From the shadows of the past, the ideals propagated by figures like Édouard Drumont and Robert Brasillach find a modern-day podium in media outlets owned by Vincent Bolloré. The current narrative of defending a besieged France against perceived internal threats mirrors the sentiments of anti-Dreyfusard newspapers of the late 19th century. This narrative drives channels like CNews and newspapers like the revamped Journal du Dimanche to champion a skewed version of patriotism entwined with identity politics.
![](https://www.eurozine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/19090103_Trois_Camelots_du_Roi_vendant_le_journal_LAction_francaise-1024x720.png)
Vendors selling the L’Action Française in 1909. Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Destructive Echoes of Intolerance
Central to this resurgence is the glorification of violence, evident in the blatant challenge to democratic norms and the demonization of certain groups within French society. Calls for rebellion and insurrection, reminiscent of past fascist ideologies, seep through the rhetoric of conservative platforms like Valeurs Actuelles and CNews. The toxic narrative perpetuated by these outlets has the potential to sow division and breed animosity towards marginalized communities.
A Path Paved by Hatred
Amidst the fury of journalistic manipulation and misinformation, there lies a deep-seated aversion towards mainstream media and a questionable quest for ‘alternative’ narratives. This rejection of established journalistic ethics in favor of sensationalism and propaganda poses a grave threat to the integrity of information dissemination. The covert reshaping of media identities and editorial principles, akin to historical precedents set by figures like François Coty, underscores a dangerous trend towards ideological subversion.
The Unyielding Influence of Éric Zemmour
At the focal point of this ideological battleground stands Éric Zemmour, a controversial figure whose unapologetic embrace of far-right ideals has garnered both support and condemnation. His unabashed stance against mainstream media and his strategic use of media platforms to propagate his views have positioned him as a polarizing figure in contemporary French journalism. Zemmour’s influence extends beyond his persona, shaping a new generation of journalists who are eager to adopt his confrontational style and far-right leanings.
As the shadows of the past converge with the uncertainties of the present, the media landscape in France stands at a critical juncture, where the echoes of a divisive history blend with the aspirations of a new wave of journalists. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, as the delicate balance between freedom of expression and responsible journalism hangs in the balance.
Published in cooperation with CAIRN International Edition, translated and edited by Cadenza Academic Translations.