Attal, who made history as France's youngest and first openly gay head of government in January, used the book to speak about his homosexuality. The reaction from some corners of the internet was swift and vicious. In a social media post, Attal described a "torrent of homophobia" flooding his accounts, including "caricatures, montages, insults, vulgarity, threats — the whole range of hate."
Instead of ignoring the abuse, the 35-year-old politician chose to expose it. He shared screenshots of the messages, turning a spotlight on the vitriol that LGBTQ+ people, particularly those in the public eye, often face.
A Message of Solidarity
In a powerful statement accompanying the screenshots, Attal acknowledged his own relative security. "I am lucky," he wrote. "I am surrounded by family and friends who support me, and I have received so many of these insults in the past that they no longer affect me."
However, he immediately pivoted to those who are more vulnerable. "Not everyone is so lucky," he continued. "Every day, young people, hesitant to accept who they are, are harassed and insulted online. Every day, women and men who have the courage to be themselves receive an avalanche of degrading and threatening comments... Fear that online hatred will turn into physical aggression."
His message concluded with a firm promise: "I will continue to hunt down homophobia. To fight it to the end. To claim for everyone the right and freedom to love... France is not theirs. The French are not them. We will not give them a moment's rest. Until shame changes sides."
European Context and Dutch Connection
The incident underscores the complex political climate across Europe. While the appointment of an openly gay prime minister is a sign of progress, the backlash demonstrates the persistent and organised nature of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment. This is a reality familiar in the Netherlands and across the continent.
Just a few weeks ago, Attal highlighted a more hopeful vision of European collaboration by posting a photo with Dutch D66 leader and fellow openly gay politician, Rob Jetten. "Europe progresses thanks to friendship, trust and collaboration," Attal wrote at the time. "Friends in politics, partners for a strong Europe." This public friendship between two prominent gay leaders stands in stark contrast to the hate they both regularly endure.
Currently serving as the Secretary General of President Macron's Renaissance party, Attal is widely seen as a potential candidate for the 2027 presidential election. His main rival is expected to be Jordan Bardella, the leader of the far-right National Rally, highlighting the deep ideological divides in French and European politics.
