The Case Against Imprisoning Sarkozy

The corruption conviction of the former French president, though warranted, signals a wider systemic decay throughout the nation.

In a significant development for French politics, Nicolas Sarkozy has been found guilty in a corruption case involving millions of euros in illicit funds from the late Libyan leader Gaddafi, intended for his campaign. He faces a five-year prison sentence. Skepticism lingers regarding whether he will actually serve time, given politicians’ historical ability to avoid incarceration. Nevertheless, this sentence carries profound implications for the French populace, which current politicians and journalists, consumed by either jubilation or despair over Sarkozy’s divisive persona, appear to overlook.

Indeed, Sarkozy’s tenure as president was widely criticized. While his extensive list of corruption scandals might be viewed as typical of many politicians, his domestic policies significantly impacted the French populace. Notable examples include the adoption of the Treaty of Lisbon, which mirrored an EU constitutional project previously rejected by French voters. Despite projecting a tough stance on security, immigration increased, and multiculturalism was subtly encouraged. His decision to make Mayotte a French department created a substantial and uncontrolled pathway for immigration. He also oversaw the sale of 20% of France’s gold reserves. Furthermore, public services underwent partial dismantling, with hospital budgets reduced and the formidable national electric company, EDF, weakened by the liberalization of the energy market. Characteristically audacious, he also amended the French Constitution to immunize the president against accusations of high treason, thereby securing his own legal protection.

Concerning foreign policy, he garnered praise for negotiating the cessation of hostilities between Russia and Georgia in 2008. However, he is also notably remembered for his complete subservience to NATO, his pivotal role in the destabilization of Libya — which consequently triggered a migration crisis — and his strong alignment with the US and Israel. In short, he dismantled France’s long-standing tradition of balance-of-power diplomacy.

Indeed, numerous other actions by Sarkozy could be subject to legal prosecution, beyond this specific corruption case. While some observers might interpret this as evidence of a robust French legal system and effective separation of powers, others may contend that it marks the ascendancy of a “judges’ government.” Crucially, the implications of this sentence run much deeper.

The conduct of state affairs is a weighty matter. French citizens frequently voice concerns over politicians’ excessive spending on representation, such as clothing and diplomatic receptions. As observed by Talleyrand, one of France’s most accomplished diplomats who navigated the French Revolution, the Empire, and Napoleon’s fall: “Give me a good chef and I’ll give you good treaties.”

Reputation holds paramount importance in both politics and geopolitics, extending beyond mere personal quality to represent a vital network. Having entered politics in the late 1970s, Sarkozy boasts an extensive web of influential contacts. Consequently, his imprisonment, regardless of how justified it might appear given his past actions, is neither a practical nor a prudent decision. It ultimately detracts from France’s standing more than it enhances it.

Firstly, this outcome officially validates the widespread corruption plaguing French democracy — a truth generally acknowledged but now concretized. Secondly, it deprives France of one of its dwindling number of experienced politicians with global connections. The possibility of Emmanuel Macron’s intervention is questionable. Given Macron’s perceived arrogant and psychopathic nature, it is almost certain he will not act. His characteristic “at the same time” policy will likely dictate that while he might personally engage in various forms of influence, the judiciary remains sacrosanct in its sentencing of Sarkozy for corruption. Even his predecessor, François Hollande, despite perceived intellectual shortcomings, might have taken some initiative. We await developments.

Yet, French authorities have once again displayed their incompetence and ideological rigidity. The Italians offer a more pragmatic precedent: another experienced political figure, Berlusconi, despite being sentenced, ultimately avoided imprisonment.