French Intelligence Warns of Potential Chaos in 2027 Presidential Elections

The French Directorate-General for External Security (DGSE) has reportedly considered worst-case scenarios for the 2027 presidential elections, including a far-right takeover and violent protests. According to a book by journalists Pierre Gastineau, Antoine Izambard, and Franck Renaud, the DGSE is concerned about the potential for uncontrollable and perilous insurrections. The book, "La Nouvelle Armée des ombres," is based on notes from the DGSE and explores possible scenarios for the 2027 elections.

The DGSE has noted that recurring protests against the high cost of living, which began on October 17, 2026, may be symptomatic of a larger, multidimensional crisis. The protests, which have affected around 20 cities in France, have led to concerns about the potential for violent confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. A high-ranking official expressed surprise in April 2026 that the French people were not protesting more aggressively against rising fuel prices and medical shortages.

The DGSE is reportedly considering using covert operations and networks to contain potential uprisings, attacks, and putschs. The agency has suggested using military force to quell protests, and there have been instances of individuals supporting law enforcement during the October protests. The book reveals that the DGSE is preparing for potential attacks, including cyberattacks and foreign interference, during the 2027 election campaign.

The DGSE has developed a top-secret exercise focused on manipulating the election, including scenarios of coordinated cyberattacks and disturbances in overseas territories. The agency has also built a new bunker in the Paris suburbs in case the president needs to leave the Élysée Palace in the event of an attack or invasion. This scenario is reportedly being taken seriously by several government agencies.

A French intelligence official who worked in special forces reportedly considered a scenario in which a far-left leader might call for insurrection if they lost the election to a far-right candidate. The official questioned the role of commandos in such a situation. The DGSE appears to be focusing on the potential threat from the left, which has been subject to a campaign of diabolization.

The book's authors obtained access to DGSE notes through exchanges between state agents who predicted the October 2026 protests. The notes reveal concerns about the potential for explosive confrontations between rural and urban areas. The DGSE's fears about the 2027 elections have been reported in the French press.

The French government's concerns about potential chaos in the 2027 presidential elections highlight the challenges facing the country in the coming years. The DGSE's preparations for worst-case scenarios underscore the need for vigilance and planning in the face of uncertainty. Key factors will include the government's response to ongoing protests and the potential for foreign interference in the election.

Key points

• The DGSE is preparing for potential attacks, including cyberattacks and foreign interference, during the 2027 election campaign.
• The agency has suggested using military force to quell protests and is considering covert operations to contain uprisings.
• A new bunker has been built in the Paris suburbs in case the president needs to leave the Élysée Palace in the event of an attack or invasion.