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Do you need to buy a birthday, anniversary or holiday gift? Visit the Galleria! February 9, 2003 What is the deal with France? By Jan A. Larson The French government has, thus far, steadfastly refused to go along with the idea of using military force to oust Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. There is obviously a reason or reasons for the resistance of the French to “get on board” with the United States and most of the rest of Europe (with the exceptions of the Germans, but that’s another column). There are two plausible reasons for French reticence. First, France has in place a significant oil agreement with Iraq. I’m sure the French officials are thinking (foolishly) that if Saddam Hussein is just left alone, they’ll get their oil and nothing bad will happen. On the other hand, military conflict in Iraq and the elimination of Saddam throws any French-Iraqi pacts out the window. France is foolish in that the only way they could benefit from the status quo would be if that status quo exists for a number of years into the future. There is virtually no chance that will happen. France, if their primary interest were in Iraqi oil, would be better served to side with the United States, eliminate Saddam Hussein and be prepared to participate in the reconstruction of post-war Iraq. Second, some have suggested that there is general attitude of jealously of the United States among the French. Could it be that the French are taking an “anti-United States” stance simply because they don’t want to participate in any endeavor that will further heighten the status of the United States in the world? France no longer enjoys the position on the world’s stage as it did in years past. France’s socialistic society has stifled competitiveness in French business and industry and France is rapidly becoming a non-factor economically. When was the last time you heard of any significant scientific or technological breakthroughs coming from France? The Concorde is 30 years old. Michelin tires? Lancombe cosmetics? Is there anything from France (besides the food and wine) that has made a significant impact in the last 20 years? The French work 30 hour weeks so more people may be employed. This is not indicative of an aggressive, competitive business climate and it is not conducive to the advancement of the society. France is becoming irrelevant and the French don’t want to face that reality. There would be no real reason for the United States to be concerned about France other than for the fact that France occupies a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and the veto power that goes along with that position. The United States is perfectly justified in taking action against Saddam Hussein without the “blessing” of the UN, but for many reasons, the support of the world community is desirable. For that reason, the United States must deal with France, a nation that is in decline as a world power. I believe that ultimately France will make the right choice on this issue. It is in their interest to do so. -- Send feedback to the author. The "What is the Deal?" column will appears weekly on the Pie of Knowledge website. Guest submissions are welcome and encouraged. To submit an article to "What is the Deal?" click here. To subscribe to the "What is the Deal?" mailing list and receive early notification when a new column is available, click here. The Pie of Knowledge will never, ever divulge email addresses to any third party for any reason unless so ordered by a court of law. Contributions to the Pie of Knowledge are greatly appreciated. 
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