Jacques Delors: The Man Who Declined France's Presidency
The humble beginnings and esteemed political journey of Jacques Delors, known for declining the French presidency, are remembered as his friends and followers reflect on his legacy.
Sam Morgan
- 2023-12-31
- Updated 12:15 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Jacques Delors, the former President of the European Commission, is often recalled for a pivotal moment in French politics: his decision not to seek the presidency of his home country. Born and raised in the 11th Arrondissement of Paris, Delors grew up in a modest neighborhood near the Père Lachaise cemetery and the Place de la Bastille. His family, remembered for their considerate and simple approach to life, saw Delors excel academically as one of the top students at Lycée Voltaire. Delors' mother, Jean, had dedicated herself to his upbringing by leaving her job to raise him. Despite rising to significant political prominence, those who knew him, including his neighbor, underline his unpretentious and approachable nature.
A Life Steeped in European Ideals
Delors, throughout his career, was not only a major figure in European politics but also an individual of culture, known for his love of good wine and jazz. He maintained his sense of humor even while enduring personal hardships, such as the loss of his wife two years prior to his express concerns over the European Union's future. Described by Françoise Roche, with whom he co-founded the European Book Prize 17 years ago, Delors remained true to his simple roots. Despite experiencing mobility issues later in life, he continued to live in an apartment near the Pantheon, in Paris, where he welcomed visitors and engaged in discourse on European affairs.
Delors' Regret and Concerns for Europe
On December 11, 1994, France stood still as 13 million people awaited Delors' decision on running for the presidency. With President Mitterrand withdrawing due to illness and Jacques Chirac poised to assume the office, Delors decided not to run, a choice he later regretted. Even in his advanced years, Delors exuded clarity of thought, as seen in his discussion with French leaders like Macron and Merkel in a video-recorded session in May 2021, warning of a medical supply shortage and advocating for an emergency plan. His predictions about the United Kingdom's post-Brexit realizations and concerns for the future power dynamics in the absence of a strong European Union reflected his critical view on Germany's dominance within the EU and attentive eye on international relations.
Jacques Delors, despite the weight of his intellect and experience, left an indelible mark on Europe. His voice, respected and heeded, continues to echo through the halls of European Union governance and the corridors of French national politics. As Delors' friends mourn the loss of a great European mind, they carry forward a mixture of reverence for his contributions and worry for the future he cautioned against – a Europe, they fear, without balanced power or a unified direction. Delors' legacy remains a testament to a life spent in the pursuit of unity, democracy, and the greater good for his country and continent.
