Economy is star in upcoming French, Greek elections

May 6 is a week away, and the days before that will likely be filled with insights of how Europe’s economic recovery plan hangs in a balance as two key member-countries, France and Greece, face potential changes at the top. The two countries are still going through fiscal straitjackets as their national economies struggle amid post-crisis reforms. Naturally, these tough austerity measures that have shaken these countries to their core put incumbent candidates in a bind. Francois Hollande is the overwhelming favorite to replace conservative Nicolas Sarkozy in the French polls, while the two main Greek parties, the socialist and conservative, may fail to secure a majority in the Parliament. The status quo may shift, and so will the European union’s long-term reform plans.

Read about the impact of economic concerns on French elections and profiles of the presidential contenders on Rappler.

Read about the Greek elections on Rappler and view slideshow of soup kitchens and elections in Greece.