The launch of a new book by French far-right leader Jordan Bardella faced protests and media controversy in Paris. The event, organised by publisher Fayard on November 4, was overshadowed by renewed attention to alleged antisemitic remarks attributed to Bardella when he was younger.
Bardella, president of the National Rally party, has denied making the remarks and has taken legal action against the media outlet that published the allegations. The controversy has continued to attract attention as he promotes his new book, titled Gouverner.
The launch was expected to provide an opportunity for Bardella to present his political ideas and strengthen his public profile. Instead, the evening became a difficult event for the party after journalists and campaigners challenged the way the allegations had been handled.
A group of anti-antisemitism activists gathered outside the venue. They called on Bardella to address the accusations and questioned his suitability for a leading political role in France. The protest added to pressure surrounding the book’s release.
The event also faced criticism after a Mediapart journalist was refused entry. The journalist had co-authored reporting on the alleged remarks. Several other journalists were also denied access, while many reporters who had registered for the event chose to leave in response.
The publisher said the event had reached capacity. However, the decision created further questions after some journalists who had been refused entry said others received invitations later in the day.
Bardella has maintained that the allegations are false. During recent interviews, he was questioned about messages attributed to him and similarities between those messages and posts on his official social media account. He rejected the claims and criticised the reporting.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for the National Rally. The party is seeking to strengthen its position ahead of France’s next presidential election. Bardella is a prominent figure within the movement and is closely linked to Marine Le Pen’s political future.
The book tour is expected to continue with further public appearances. However, the launch shows how the allegations continue to affect Bardella’s public image and create difficult questions for his party as it prepares for the next election campaign.
