The French presidency goes to Macron. But it’s only a reprieve | Timothy Garton Ash

The centrist candidate’s victory over Marine Le Pen has avoided the worst – but the daunting work of reform in France and in Europe lies ahead

French election 2017: second round – liveResults tracker – as they come in

Like someone who has narrowly escaped a heart attack, Europe can raise a glass and give thanks for the victory of Emmanuel Macron. But the glass is less than half full, and if Europe doesn’t change its ways it will only have postponed the fateful day.

Related: Macron wins French presidency by decisive margin over Le Pen

If Macron fails to reform France, in 2022 we may yet have a president Le Pen – either Marine or Marion Maréchal-Le Pen

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