A new conservative “Christian-inspired” think tank backed by a French media magnate is drawing increased scrutiny ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election as critics on the Left raise concerns about its potential influence on debates over immigration, public spending and cultural policy.
The organisation – known as the Institut de l’Espérance – was established in 2025 with funding from Vincent Bolloré, a billionaire reported by the European Conservative to be Catholic, with the stated aim of promoting public policy rooted in Christian social thought and civic engagement. It has been described by its founders as a forum for developing policy proposals intended to serve the “common good” while addressing what they view as long-term cultural and economic challenges facing France.
