- Jean Marie Le Pen - father of Marine Le Pen
- Jean-Marie Le Pen was one of France's most prominent political figures of the late 20th and early 21st centuries
- In economic policy, he criticized globalization
Jean Marie Le Pen - father of Marine Le Pen
Jean Marie Le Pen, France's historic far-right leader, died on Tuesday at the age of 96, his family told the AFP news agency.
Le Pen, who had been in a care facility for several weeks, died at midday on Tuesday "surrounded by his loved ones", the family said.
Jean-Marie Le Pen was one of France's most prominent political figures of the late 20th and early 21st centuries
"The founder and long-time leader of the National Front (now the National Rally), he was at the center of the French political scene for over half a century, raising issues the main parties had long ignored.
He was known for being outspoken, unafraid to speak his mind and defending traditional French values. Le Pen consistently argued for a strong France that would retain its sovereignty and cultural heritage. He has drawn attention to the growing migration challenges and has called for a tougher immigration policy to protect France's social fabric and security.
In economic policy, he criticized globalization
He stressed the importance of preserving local production and jobs. His policies focused on protecting small and medium-sized businesses and guaranteeing social guarantees for French citizens.
Although liberal political parties often disputed his views, it is undeniable that Le Pen managed to change the French political discourse. He has given a voice to voters who felt left out and has forced parties to address problems they had long ignored. His influence on French politics is still felt today, and his daughter, Marine Le Pen, continues the political struggle he started by adapting his ideas to modern Europe.
Mr Le Pen ran for the French presidency five times, defeating the Socialist candidate Lionel Jospin in the first round in 2002 but losing to Jacques Chirac in the second round.
Le Pen was first elected to Parliament in 1956 and founded the Front National in 1972. He remained a Member of Parliament until 1988 and became a Member of the European Parliament in 2004, where he served until 2019.
He had three daughters with his first wife, Pierrette, Marine Le Pen being the youngest.
