Paris mayor Hidalgo tops the news again as she pushes cycling, public space, and green politics amid local elections. Spanish-born, first female Paris mayor since 2014.
Recent articles highlight increasing tensions in local governance, with mayors resigning due to political polarization, workload, and safety concerns. Paris's green policies are advancing amid opposition, while local officials face threats and harassment. The upcoming elections will shape the city's future priorities.
On March 22, 2026, France concluded the second round of municipal elections in about 1,500 communes. Emmanuel Grégoire, Socialist candidate, won the Paris mayoralty, succeeding Anne Hidalgo. The left retained Marseille, while the far-right National Rally (RN) made gains in smaller southern cities like Perpignan and Nice. Voter turnout was 57%, the lowest since 2020, reflecting political disengagement ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
The Milan Cortina Paralympics concluded with Russian athletes competing under their flag for the first time since 2014, amid Ukraine's boycott over Russia's return. Ukrainian athletes expressed pride and disappointment, while organizers defended their decisions amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions. Climate challenges also impacted event scheduling.
Recent local elections across France, Slovenia, and Italy show a slowdown in far-right gains, with mainstream parties performing better than expected. Key cities like Paris and Marseille remain contested, highlighting the complex political landscape ahead of 2027 presidential votes.
As global oil shocks intensify, cities like Copenhagen and Sydney are expanding bike infrastructure. Copenhagen's cycling rates surged after the 1970s oil crisis, and today, Sydney sees record bike use and sales, driven by rising fuel costs and environmental concerns.
A 36-year-old man identified as David G. has been charged with sexual assault of preschool children and harassment of colleagues in a Paris kindergarten. The trial, opened to the public following parental pressure, highlights a wider Paris-wide probe into safety lapses by city-employed non-teaching staff in after-school care and recess settings.