‘Une Francophonie à l'offensive’? recent developments in Francophonie

This article traces recent developments in Francophonie in the light of the establishment of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie and a new institutional framework, examining how these may have changed the Francophone discourse and the nature and focus of its institutions and programmes. It also considers whether what was primarily an ideology has evolved to something more practical. It then analyses shifts in France's approach to Francophonie in the context of the Sarkozy presidency, before briefly summarising some of the strengths and weaknesses that could impinge on its future development.