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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has publicly said he is “concerned” about France’s upcoming elections and the possible rise of the far-right.

“I am concerned about the elections in France,” Scholz told public broadcaster ARD in his annual summer interview. He added, “And I hope that parties that are not [Marine] Le Pen, to put it that way, are successful in the election. But that is for the French people to decide.”

Scholz’s concerns are also rooted in the rise of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in the recent European Parliament elections, which saw Scholz’s ruling coalition suffer losses. Some analysts believe a loss to Macron’s party in France could have a “trickle-down” effect across Europe, which more progressive parties have traditionally controlled.

Things are not looking good for Macron:
Just weeks before the first round of snap elections, President Emmanuel Macron’s party is struggling to make headway. French media report that a likely outcome of the election is a hung parliament, leading to gridlock. A recent poll by French media shows that 41% of those polled would vote for the far right, compared to 34% who would vote for the far left.

Protests:
In response to Macron’s call for elections, widespread demonstrations have erupted across France, protesting against the far right. Those on the far left are trying to appeal to those who vote independently, warning that if the far right takes over, they will lose rights to abortion and family planning.