Event Summary

A Conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot

15 minutes

The Belfer Center proudly hosted Jean-Noël Barrot, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, on September 25, 2025. 

In conversation with Natalie Colbert, he spoke about the risks facing democratic models of government and potential ways to protect them.

Watch the seminar with students in full below.

 

Watch the Conversation in Full

 

The French Foreign Minister's Visit, In Photos

Natalie Colbert introduces French Foriegn Minister Barrot at the Belfer Center, September 2025
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Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, joined Belfer Center Executive Director Natalie Colbert, for a conversation about the fundamental pillars of democracy and the importance of accountability, transparency, and truth. 

French Foriegn Minister Barrot hosted at the Belfer Center, September 2025
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To a room full of Belfer Center fellows, faculty and students of the Harvard Kennedy School, Minister Barrot spoke about the ways in which democracy is under attack globally, and how leaders are grappling with what can be done to protect it.

French Foriegn Minister Barrot speaking to students at Harvard Kennedy School, September 2025
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Minister Barrot called on students at the Harvard Kennedy School to question their role in democracy: whether they will be participants or actors.

Students questioned the Minister about the potential effects of France’s recognition of a Palestinian state, and global AI regulation.

French Foriegn Minister Barrot hosted at the Belfer Center, September 2025
French Foriegn Minister Barrot speaking to students at Harvard Kennedy School, September 2025
Natalie Colbert introduces French Foriegn Minister Barrot at the Belfer Center, September 2025

Event Summary

French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot joined Harvard Kennedy School for a timely conversation on the challenges and future of democracy, moderated by Belfer Center Executive Director Natalie Colbert.

Minister Barrot opened with reflections on the historic ties between France and the United States, invoking Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution and the enduring ideals of liberty, equality, and the rule of law. He argued that democracy, though fragile, has proven to be the strongest framework for prosperity, peace, and human welfare.

At the same time, he warned that democracy is under attack—from authoritarian regimes that fear its spread and from populist forces within democratic societies themselves. He described the phenomenon of “democratic fatigue,” in which citizens feel unheard, over-regulated, and increasingly disillusioned.

Barrot proposed three remedies:

  • Enlightenment through education, free science, and independent media.
  • Empowerment through decentralization, citizen assemblies, and greater public participation.
  • Courage to place values above comfort and face challenges directly.

In conversation with Colbert, Barrot discussed the tension between social spending and defense investments. He stressed the need for reforms that unleash citizen creativity and trust rather than forcing false choices between welfare and security.

During audience questions, Barrot addressed:

  • Palestine and the Middle East: France’s recent initiative with Saudi Arabia was aimed at reviving the two-state solution, securing UN condemnation of Hamas, and encouraging Arab states to engage in regional security architecture alongside recognition of Palestine.
  • European security: France and the UK’s coalition of more than 30 countries to provide security guarantees for Ukraine represents the most important European security initiative since NATO’s founding, complementing rather than replacing NATO.
  • Artificial Intelligence: France’s approach balances international regulatory frameworks with a push to develop AI capabilities rooted in democratic values, arguing that building technology is as critical as regulating it.

The discussion closed with Barrot’s call to students and citizens alike: democracy can and must be renewed through enlightenment, empowerment, and courage.

Headshot of Jean-Noel Barrot
Speaker

Jean-Noel Barrot