French Mayors Left Vulnerable to Violent Attacks.

Attacks against mayors in France are increasing, with many feeling abandoned and left to fend for themselves. The mayor of Saint-Brévin, who lost his home in an arson attack, resigned citing a lack of support from the state. Mayors across France are becoming frequent targets of abuse and attacks, with 1,500 reported assaults on municipal officials in 2022. The rise in attacks is attributed to persistent tensions in French society, including growing mistrust in institutions and a decline of trust and respect towards hierarchical authority. The government is working on better protecting mayors, with a law aimed at providing better support for elected officials already in effect.