As soon as it has been realized that France is lagging behind, our first thoughts must be for the reforms that could enable us to catch up and for the means of change in a country ready to block them and resort to violence. What can be done to create a model for France that fits the 21st century?
We must rely on production, work and knowledge; free the economy and society; trust in French people – their creativity and patriotism – to stem the temptation to extremism and reestablish France’s loosened link with political freedom.
(Perrin, 2006)