France’s Parliament Calls for a Geopolitical Revolution

In a world increasingly defined by multipolarity, where global power is no longer concentrated in the hands of a single hegemon, France’s National Assembly has issued a seismic call to action.

A 153-page report, titled Rapport d’information sur les relations entre l’Union européenne et la Chine [Report on Relations between the European Union and China], published by the European Affairs Committee on June 17, 2025, is nothing short of a manifesto for a European century.

In an era of shifting global power, where no single nation holds unchallenged dominance, France’s National Assembly has delivered a provocative challenge to the status quo. Its daring call for Europe to redefine its geopolitical destiny, has been hailed on X as potentially the century’s most significant document from a major European institution, the report demands a fundamental shift in the EU’s strategy, urging it to escape its “submissive” alignment with the United States and pursue an equal partnership with China.

This is not a mere policy tweak but a bold vision to reposition Europe in a multipolar world, potentially reshaping global alliances for decades to come.

The Push for Independence

The report’s central critique is unsparing: Europe’s deference to the United States has been a “disastrous misstep” that has eroded its global influence and left its interests vulnerable. Describing the EU as “vassalized,” it argues that Europe’s reliance on American leadership—economically, militarily, and strategically—has marginalized the continent in a world increasingly shaped by rising powers. From dependence on the U.S. dollar to a misaligned Indo-Pacific strategy, the report paints a picture of a Europe sidelined by its own choices.

Its solution? A radical embrace of “strategic autonomy,” a concept long championed by some in French political circles?

The report outlines 50 recommendations to achieve this vision, ranging from economic reforms to diplomatic realignments. Its most audacious proposals include fostering a cooperative relationship with China in the Indo-Pacific and creating a new global currency to challenge the dollar’s dominance. These ideas aim to position Europe as a leader, not a follower, in the emerging global order.

Partnering with China

Among the report’s boldest suggestions is recommendation #11, which urges the EU to abandon its U.S.-aligned Indo-Pacific strategy in favor of collaboration with China. The current approach, which often pits Europe against Beijing in a region critical to global trade and security, is deemed shortsighted. Instead, the report advocates for a partnership that leverages China’s economic and geopolitical clout to address shared challenges like climate change and regional stability. This is not about capitulation but about recognizing China’s undeniable influence—its $18 trillion economy and dominance in global supply chains make it a force Europe cannot ignore.

Even more striking is recommendation #14, which proposes a “common world currency” to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar. This aligns with efforts by BRICS nations to create a multipolar financial system, shielding economies from U.S.-driven sanctions and market fluctuations.

For Europe however, this risks provoking tensions with Washington, which has long benefited from the dollar’s global dominance.

A Historic Shift in Perspective

The report’s vision represents a profound departure from the historical trajectory of the West. For centuries, European powers, including France during its colonial era, shaped global affairs through dominance, often marginalizing nations in the Global South. The proposal to treat China—an emblem of the rising Global South—as an equal partner marks a historic turning point. It acknowledges the end of Western unipolarity and the rise of a multipolar world where power is shared among diverse actors.

As noted in Le Monde (July 2025), France has often tried to position itself as a mediator between global powers, a legacy rooted in Charles de Gaulle’s vision of an independent Europe. The report builds on this tradition but pushes it further, envisioning a Europe that not only balances East and West but actively shapes the global future through partnerships with rising powers like China.

The Risks

Such a dramatic shift carries significant risks. Aligning with China could strain Europe’s relationship with the United States, its primary security partner through NATO.

While the report argues that cooperation does not imply endorsement of China’s political system, critics will contend that such a move could erode Europe’s commitment to old transatlantic ties.

Economically, the stakes are high. Dedollarization, while appealing for its promise of financial independence, could destabilize global markets and invite U.S. retaliation.

Additionally, deeper ties with China could expose Europe to vulnerabilities in critical sectors like technology, where Chinese firms face increasing scrutiny. Les Echos (June 2025) highlighted concerns among European businesses about over-reliance on China, particularly amid ongoing supply chain challenges.

Europe’s Last Stand?

The report frames its proposals as a critical juncture for Europe’s survival as a global player. With the EU’s share of global GDP shrinking—from 30% in 1990 to roughly 17% today—it faces the risk of irrelevance in a world dominated by new powers. The rise of China, India, and BRICS nations underscores the urgency of this moment. Clinging to a U.S.-led order, the report warns, will only accelerate Europe’s decline.

Yet, implementing this vision faces domestic hurdles in France. The National Assembly is deeply divided, with populist factions on both the left and right complicating consensus. Public sentiment is also mixed: a 2025 IFOP poll cited in Le Figaro reveals that while 65% of French citizens support greater autonomy from the U.S., 52% view China with skepticism.

Bridging these divides will however require political courage and skillful leadership, something which Macron lacks.

Florian Philippot’s Critique

Florian Philippot, leader of the nationalist Patriots party, has sharply criticized the report, reflecting his anti-globalist stance. In a July 2025 statement reported by Le Monde, Philippot called the report “a dangerous capitulation to Chinese influence” that undermines French sovereignty. He argues that aligning with China, an authoritarian power, betrays France’s values and risks economic dependency, particularly in critical sectors like technology.

Philippot contends that the report’s push for strategic autonomy is a facade, as it swaps U.S. dominance for Chinese sway, leaving France “caught between two empires.” He advocates for a fully independent France, free from both American and Chinese influence, prioritizing national interests over global partnerships. His critique resonates with his base but overlooks the report’s argument that cooperation with China could strengthen Europe’s global standing in a multipolar world.

As the French saying goes, “Le monde appartient à ceux qui osent”—the world belongs to those who dare. For Europe, that dare means embracing a new path, one that could redefine its place in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Sources: Assemblée Nationale, Rapport d’information n° 1588, June 17, 2025; Le Monde, July 2025; Les Echos, June 2025; Le Figaro, IFOP poll, 2025; X posts by @RnaudBertrand, July 11, 2025.

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