In a landmark ruling on March 31, 2025, Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally (Rassemblement National, RN), was convicted of embezzling over €4 million in European Parliament funds. The Paris criminal court sentenced her to four years in prison—two years to be served under house arrest and two years suspended—fined her €100,000, and imposed a five-year ban from holding public office, effectively barring her from the 2027 presidential election.

The court found that Le Pen and several party members misused European Union funds intended for parliamentary aides to pay party staff in France. Presiding Judge Bénédicte de Perthuis stated that Le Pen was "at the heart" of the scheme. Le Pen has denied all allegations, claiming the ruling is politically motivated, and she plans to appeal the decision.

The conviction has elicited strong reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of Le Pen and the RN have denounced the ruling as politically motivated. Jordan Bardella, the 29-year-old president of the RN and Le Pen's protégé, stated, "Today it is not only Marine Le Pen who was unjustly condemned: It was French democracy that was killed."

Starting April 6, 2025, thousands of Le Pen's supporters organized nationwide protests, particularly in Paris, denouncing the conviction as politically motivated. Le Pen addressed a large crowd at Place Vauban, invoking Martin Luther King Jr. and pledging to continue her political fight.

Counter-protests were also held by left-wing groups, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law. Green Party leader Marine Tondelier stated, "This is bigger than Marine Le Pen. It's about defending the rule of law from people who think justice is optional."

The conviction and subsequent ban from public office have significant implications for the RN and the broader French political landscape. With Le Pen potentially unable to run in 2027, Jordan Bardella has emerged as a possible presidential candidate. Bardella has expressed his readiness to run if Le Pen is barred, stating, "If Marine Le Pen is unable to run, I will assume my responsibilities."

Le Pen has announced plans to appeal the conviction, with a decision expected in the summer of 2026. The appeal process will be closely watched, as it will determine whether she can participate in future elections. The case has also sparked debates over judicial independence and the potential politicization of the judiciary. Critics argue that the ruling suppresses voter choice, while supporters emphasize the importance of upholding democratic rules and accountability.

This conviction marks a pivotal moment in French politics, potentially reshaping the future of the far-right movement and influencing the dynamics of the upcoming presidential election.