The Image of Russia as the Other in the Political Discourse of Emmanuel Macron

Introduction. The concept of the Other is an integral part of the functioning of society, it occupies an important place in determining the political boundaries of the ideology of the state. The issue of the formation of French identity has long been discussed in broad intellectual and political circles. In the self-determination of France under Macron, the image of the Other is of particular importance for ensuring the consolidation of the states of the West. The purpose of the article is, on the basis of the study, to assess the significance of using Russia as the Other of France, to analyze the reasons for this discursive strategy of Macron.

Materials and Methods. The research base is the works of domestic and foreign scientists. The materials for the study are empirical and theoretical studies, French statistical materials. Methods of comparative and discursive analysis, cultural-historical method, content analysis are used in the work.

Results. In the process of a comprehensive study of the first five-year term of Macron, the reason for the use by the French authorities of discursive practices of hostility to Russia for the “Fifth Republic” was revealed. The discursive expulsion of Russia from Europe does not meet the aspirations of the French. However, Russia’s special operation in Ukraine finally has made Russia as the Other for France, has established a supranational French self-identification, and has suppressed Euroscepticism in the Fifth Republic.

Discussion and Conclusion. Conclusions have been drawn about the reasons for the negative perception of Russia in France. This self-identification forms a supranational French identity, enhances the image of President Emmanuel Macron in the EU, and increases the importance of criticism as a method of political struggle in the party system. This study can be useful both for a specialist in French studies in the analysis of bilateral relations between countries, and for an ordinary layman to form opinions. The perspectives of this topic cover studies of the need to develop Franco-Russian relations.