Nicolas Sarkozy

Who Is Nicolas Sarkozy?

Nicolas Sarkozy is a French politician who served as President of the French Republic from 2007 to 2012. Known for his energetic style and reformist approach, Sarkozy played a key role in French politics for several decades, pushing for modernization of the state, economic reforms, and strong stances on security issues. Beyond his presidency, he held various high-level government positions, including Minister of the Interior and Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industry, where he implemented pivotal policies. Throughout his career, he has been an influential figure in right-wing politics, leading parties such as the Union for a Popular Movement (UMP) and The Republicans (LR).

What is his Background?

Nicolas Sarkozy’s political career spans several decades of public service in France. He began his political career in 1977 as a member of the Municipal Council of Neuilly-sur-Seine, later becoming mayor of that city from 1983 to 2002. Over the years, he held numerous key positions, including president of the General Council of Hauts-de-Seine in 2004.

His rise to national prominence took off when he became Minister of the Interior and later Minister of Economy in the governments of Jean-Pierre Raffarin. In 2007, Sarkozy was elected President of France with 53.06% of the vote, leading a government focused on economic reform, immigration control, and active foreign policy. During his presidency, he was awarded prestigious international recognitions, such as Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece, conferred by King Juan Carlos I of Spain.

After leaving the presidency in 2012 following a defeat to François Hollande, Sarkozy remained politically active, leading The Republicans until his temporary withdrawal after an unsuccessful bid for the 2017 presidential election.