| French statesman and politician, 23rd President of the French Republic (2007–2012) Date of Birth: 28.01.1955 Country: France |
Nicolas Sarkozy is a French statesman and politician who served as the 23rd President of the French Republic from 2007 to 2012. He was born on January 28, 1955, in Budapest, Hungary, to a Hungarian aristocrat father and a French mother.
Sarkozy's interest in politics began at a young age. He joined the Union of Democrats for the Republic party in 1974 and became a member of the municipal council of Neuilly-sur-Seine in 1977. In 1983, he was elected as the mayor of the city, a position he held until 2002.
Throughout his political career, Sarkozy has held various positions in the French government. In 1993, he gained recognition for personally negotiating with a terrorist who took children hostage in a nursery in Neuilly-sur-Seine. He served as the Minister of Budget and Government Spokesperson in the government of Edouard Balladur in 1993 and later became the Minister of Interior in the government of Jean-Pierre Raffarin in 2002.
In 2004, Sarkozy was elected as the leader of the Union for a Popular Movement party. During his tenure, he focused on increasing the party's membership and implementing reforms. In May 2007, he was elected as the President of France, serving a five-year term.
As President, Sarkozy faced numerous challenges, including rising crime rates, anti-Semitism, and tensions within the Muslim community. He took a tough stance on crime, implementing policies to increase police presence and crack down on prostitution. He also advocated for stricter control over illegal immigration.
Sarkozy's approach to Islam in France was characterized by flexibility. He supported the creation of the French Council of the Muslim Religion in 2003 and proposed amendments to the 1905 law on the separation of church and state to allow for the financing of religious organizations with French funds.
Despite his accomplishments and popularity among his supporters, Sarkozy's presidency was not without controversy. Critics accused him of populism and undermining civil liberties. His tough rhetoric and policies often drew criticism from liberal circles.
After leaving office in 2012, Sarkozy remained active in politics and announced his intention to run for the presidency again in 2017. He continues to be a prominent figure in French politics and maintains a strong following.
Overall, Nicolas Sarkozy is recognized for his leadership qualities, charisma, and conservative political beliefs. He is known for his support of low taxes, reduced social spending, and European integration. As a staunch ally of the United States, he has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of France.