On September 23, LONGHOUSE founders Elizabeth and Marianne had the privilege of attending a significant event at the Quai d’Orsay in Paris, marking a key transition within the French government following Prime Minister Barnier’s new appointments. The handover ceremony between Foreign Affairs Ministers and their teams took place in a reception room adjacent to the historic Salle de l’Horloge, a space imbued with symbolism, where landmark treaties and decisions that have shaped France’s international standing were signed. Among those present were Stéphane Séjourné and Jean-Noël Barrot, figureheads in the political landscape of France and Europe, underscoring the nation’s enduring commitment to the European Union and its strategic global alliances.
Global Conflicts
During his address, Barrot, the newly appointed Minister, delivered a powerful reflection on the current global situation:
"As we live through an era of geopolitical crises of exceptional gravity—from the war in Gaza and Ukraine, to tensions between Israel and Lebanon, the conflict in Sudan, and the crisis in Haiti—my commitment to representing France’s voice will be unwavering, matching the scale of the challenges we face. I will defend, with every fibre of my being, international law in the service of a just and lasting peace."
His words underscored the immense responsibility France holds in addressing global conflicts and upholding international law as a foundation for lasting peace.
Diplomatie féminine
He captivated the audience with his forward-thinking vision for France’s international strategy, emphasising diplomacy through a gendered lens—an approach rooted in the concept of “diplomatie féminine”. This strategy seeks not only to protect women’s rights but to place women at the forefront of peacebuilding, democratic governance, and international collaboration. Barrot's focus on gender equality in diplomacy resonated deeply with LONGHOUSE mission to promote inclusive leadership across sectors, both within France and globally. He later clarified to Marianne during the Mouvement Démocrate's annual party conference that his diplomatie féminine encompasses both the promotion of women as diplomats and the safeguarding of women's rights, beginning with urgent attention to the plight of women in Iran and Afghanistan.
On that same day, during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York—a major international forum that convenes heads of state, government leaders, and national representatives to present their priorities and address global challenges in the pursuit of peace, security, and sustainable development—Barrot reaffirmed France’s steadfast commitment to defending the rights of women and girls worldwide, and to combatting all forms of violence they face.
Tackling Four Global Challenges
The ceremony also highlighted four critical challenges that the French government aims to address through its international relations:
Peace: In a world increasingly destabilised by geopolitical tensions, France remains committed to leading peace efforts through diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international cooperation. The focus is not only on mitigating existing conflicts but also on preventing future crises by fostering cross-border dialogue.
Climate: The Paris Agreement remains a cornerstone of global climate action. France continues to take a leadership role in combating climate change, reaffirming its dedication to the goals set out in the Pacte de Paris. Collaboration with international partners, including those across the Atlantic, is central to driving sustainable development and reducing the global carbon footprint.
Democracy and Fundamental Freedoms: With democratic values under increasing threat worldwide, France stands resolute in defending democracy and human rights. The government seeks to strengthen partnerships with nations that share these ideals, particularly its transatlantic allies, in order to protect the freedoms that underpin open societies—from freedom of speech to the protection of minorities.
Prosperity: Economic prosperity, fuelled by innovation and equitable growth, remains a priority on France’s international agenda. By working closely with global partners, France aims to foster a more prosperous and inclusive world economy, where innovation benefits all and promotes collective progress.
Jean-Noël Barrot and Elizabeth Frost Pierson
Reinforcing Multilateral Relations
The French government’s vision also places significant emphasis on reinforcing multilateral relations and improving their efficiency. The enduring partnership between France and the United States, rooted in shared values of democracy, human rights, and multilateralism, remains a cornerstone of international cooperation. Both countries acknowledge the interconnectedness of today’s global challenges, the pressing need for unity in addressing them and the importance of the international law to protect peace as a pre-requisite to positive outcomes.
Elizabeth and Marianne were particularly moved by these discussions, which are closely aligned with their mission at Longhouse to curate meaningful international partnerships and cultivate transatlantic dialogues. Reflecting on the event, they remarked on the historic significance of the Salle de l’Horloge, noting how it continues to stand as a symbol of collaboration and progressive diplomacy.
As France embarks on this new chapter under renewed leadership, there is a shared sense of hope and resolve that the global challenges of our time—peace, climate, democracy, and prosperity—can be met through cooperative international action. LONGHOUSE looks forward to continuing its engagement and partnerships in these crucial endeavours, amplifying voices that champion inclusivity and resilience in the face of global crises. France’s vision for the future extends far beyond its national borders. As Elizabeth and Marianne witnessed today, the world is indeed watching.
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