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Check FAQAbout Catherine
Catherine Field is an award-winning journalist with a distinguished career spanning radio, television, and print media. With a focus on European politics, international relations, and current affairs, she has become a respected voice on the intersection of France's political dynamics and its role within the European Union. Since 1999, Catherine has been based in France, providing insightful coverage on events such as the French presidential elections, the Franco-German alliance under leaders like Macron and Merkel, and the broader implications of movements like Brexit, nationalism, and populism on international trade and security. Before settling in France, Catherine's journalistic journey took her to Hong Kong as The Observer's China Correspondent and to Berlin, where she served as the newspaper's correspondent from 1986 until 1993. Her reporting on the lead-up to the fall of the Berlin Wall earned her a silver medal at the New York International Festival of Radio. Catherine's storytelling prowess was further recognized when she was named runner-up in the New Zealand Canon Media Awards 2015 for her coverage of the anniversary of 'The Rainbow Warrior' attack, and again in the New Zealand Radio Awards 2015 for her reporting on 'The Paris Attacks' on November 13, 2015. Catherine began her career with the BBC in London, working with the World Service news and later with the BBC-2 TV current affairs program 'Newsnight.' Her assignments have taken her to pivotal moments in history, including the handover of Hong Kong, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the collapse of the Soviet Union. She has also reported from challenging locations such as North Korea, Burma, Tibet, and Albania. As a seasoned journalist, Catherine continues to contribute to French, Canadian, and American television, bringing her expertise and nuanced understanding of complex global issues to audiences worldwide.
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The future direction of Europe may rely on the blossoming friendship between France’s new president, Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel
Catherine Field discusses the potential impact of the relationship between French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the future of Europe. With Brexit and the rise of populism, the EU's stability was questioned, but it now appears to be thriving. The Franco-German alliance is driving initiatives such as the defence of the Paris climate agreement, a push for open trade, and a new European defence strategy, including a joint warplane and military drones project. There's also a move towards aligning corporate taxation and talks of eurozone reform, including a proposed finance minister and budget. However, Macron must first address French economic issues to win German support for these reforms. The article also touches on Macron's controversial invitation to Trump for Bastille Day, which raised eyebrows in Germany.
France's new president seems to have broken all the rules, in politics and in private, and won. Ontario Today, a CBC Radio province-wide open line show with host Rita Celli, links up with freelance journalist Catherine Field in Paris to talk about the French President-elect Emmanuel Macron and the road ahead for France.
New Zealand will be counting on France’s new president, whether Macron or Le Pen, to maintain the European Union’s engagement with the Pacific
The article discusses the significance of the French presidential election between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen, highlighting its impact on France's political system, the European Union, and international relations, particularly with New Zealand. The election is portrayed as a choice between Macron's centrist, pro-EU, and pro-business stance and Le Pen's far-right, nationalist, and anti-immigration platform. The article also touches on the challenges facing France, such as unemployment, social cohesion, and the threat of terrorism. It outlines the potential consequences of the election for both candidates and the broader implications for the EU and the French constitutional system.
Doubtful result will endanger UK's global role
The UK's global influence in foreign affairs and defense is at risk due to the likelihood of a weak government following the elections. The campaign has focused on domestic issues, with little attention to foreign affairs, reflecting the low priority given by the outgoing coalition. Defense spending cuts and a lack of engagement in international crises have contributed to the UK's diminished role. The Conservative Party, under pressure from UKIP, may hold an EU membership referendum, while Labour and the Liberal Democrats oppose it. The UK's identity crisis and europhobia, along with reduced military capabilities, have weakened its international standing. The US is closely monitoring the election outcomes, as continued trends could question the UK's relevance. Additionally, UKIP candidate Robert Blay was suspended for threatening Conservative rival Ranil Jayawardena.
Writers at war over Charlie Hebdo freedom award
A dispute has arisen among western writers over the decision to award Charlie Hebdo, the French satirical magazine targeted in a deadly attack by Islamic gunmen, with a freedom prize by the PEN American Centre. Notable authors like Peter Carey and Joyce Carol Oates have criticized the move, citing cultural insensitivity towards French Muslims. The controversy has sparked a debate on the nature of free speech and the responsibilities of satirical media, with some intellectuals, including Salman Rushdie, condemning the boycotters for their stance. Despite the criticism, PEN intends to proceed with the award ceremony, emphasizing the importance of defending free expression against violent extremism.
Sarkozy supporters head off National Front
Mainstream conservatives in France, led by former President Nicolas Sarkozy, prevented the far-right National Front from making significant gains in local elections. Sarkozy's bloc received about a third of the vote, while left-wing parties and the National Front each garnered about a quarter. Despite not reaching the predicted 30% mark, the National Front claimed progress, while Prime Minister Manuel Valls acknowledged the far right's presence but denied it was the leading party. The Socialist Party may face losses in the upcoming runoff vote due to a lack of tactical coalition with other left-wing groups, leading to a fragmented left-wing vote.
Catherine Field opens a special broadcast 'Breakfast in Paris' and talks of the mood of the nation and its difficult road ahead in the aftermath of the 13 November attacks in Paris and at the Stade de France national sports stadium.
Ukraine crisis continues despite ceasefire and English football racism in Paris
The week's events included discussions on eurozone talks in Athens, the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Debaltseve amidst a shaky ceasefire, and the French government surviving a no-confidence vote. In Paris, incidents of English football hooliganism and racism were reported.
Paris terror attack: Parisians rally in memory of fallen
In response to the terrorist attack on Charlie Hebdo in Paris, which resulted in 12 deaths and 11 injuries, 35,000 Parisians gathered at Place de la Republique to honor the victims. Nationwide, over 100,000 people rallied in solidarity, holding signs like 'Je Suis Charlie' and displaying pens as symbols of press freedom. The attack has been widely condemned internationally, with President Francois Hollande calling for unity and declaring a day of national mourning. Security has been heightened as the manhunt for the suspects continues, and there is growing concern over the threat posed by homegrown Islamists, particularly those returning from conflicts in the Middle East.
In French Schools, Catholic Church and State Join Forces
The Lycée Jean-Paul II, a Catholic school in Sartrouville, France, represents a unique cooperation between the Catholic Church and the secular French state, where students from diverse backgrounds, including many from immigrant families, receive education. This partnership, known as 'sous contrat,' allows Catholic schools to receive state subsidies if they adhere to the state curriculum, employ state-trained teachers, and open their doors to all faiths. The arrangement provides students with the benefits of private education without high fees or religious proselytization. The growing demand for places in such schools reflects a trend where more than one in six French children attend Catholic schools, with an increasing number from the Muslim minority.
Meanwhile: The job comes with six châteaux
The next French president, whether Nicolas Sarkozy or Ségolène Royal, will inherit a life of luxury and significant power, residing in the Elysée Palace and having access to six official residences. The French head of state enjoys extensive powers, including determining defense and foreign policy, dissolving Parliament, appointing and firing prime ministers, overturning laws, and granting pardons, all established under the Fifth Republic by Charles de Gaulle.
The time bombs in France's suburbs
The article discusses the radicalization of French-born Muslims, highlighting the case of Idris Bazis, who became a suicide bomber in Iraq. It explores the alienation and exclusion felt by many young 'beurs' (French of North African descent) in France, which can lead to radicalization. The French police intelligence service and experts point to the exploitation of feelings of exclusion by fundamentalists, as well as the impact of policies like the ban on the hijab. Out of an estimated six million Muslims in France, around 9,000 are considered potentially dangerous fundamentalists. The article suggests that France's approach to Muslim immigration has lacked sensitivity and respect, contributing to the problem. It concludes that the European reality of failing to integrate Muslim immigrants has led to current security challenges.
Foodies' Bible eats humble pie after reviewing scandal
The Michelin restaurant guide, known for its influential star ratings, faced a credibility crisis when it had to withdraw all 50,000 copies of its 2005 Red Guide Benelux after a restaurant, Ostend Queen, received a positive review before opening. The error was attributed to 'good relations' between the restaurant owner Fernand David and Michelin executives. This incident follows previous allegations by former inspector Pascal Remy about the infrequency of inspections and overrated establishments. The guide's influence is significant, as seen in the suicide of chef Bernard Loiseau after a drop in ratings from a rival guide.
Changing news habits: France's national dailies are in trouble
France's national newspapers are facing a crisis with declining circulations and financial losses. The four major dailies, Le Figaro, Le Monde, Libération, and Le Parisien, are all experiencing reduced readership, with the latter two's sales being less than half of the former's. Le Figaro's recent change in ownership has raised concerns about editorial independence, a worry shared by Le Monde and Libération as they seek new capital. Niche papers like La Croix and Les Echos are stable, while L'Humanité struggles to survive. The rise of free-sheets and the internet poses a significant threat to the industry, which is crucial for public information and connection. The article suggests that survival is possible if publishers and editors adapt to the changing landscape.
What really brought Napoleon down
Napoleon Bonaparte's death in exile in 1821 has sparked controversy, with new speculation suggesting that overzealous doctors may have inadvertently caused his death through aggressive medical treatments. Researchers from the San Francisco Medical Examiner's Department believe that daily colonic irrigation and purges to relieve intestinal distress could have led to a fatal drop in potassium levels. Despite the ignominious nature of this theory, it contributes to the enduring legend of Napoleon, a figure who continues to fascinate and inspire a vast amount of literature.
Brains is a better response than brawn to the threat of Islamic radicals
France's Interior Minister Dominique de Villepin expelled imam Abdelkader Bouziane, who made controversial statements about polygamy and wife-beating, potentially breaking the law in his haste. Bouziane, linked to terrorist networks, was already facing expulsion under a previous ministerial order. Villepin's action, while initially praised, is now criticized for its disregard for legal process and the risks it poses to the rule of law. The article argues that combating Islamist terrorism requires political astuteness and fair laws, not just forceful actions.
Selectively secular in a Paris suburb
Maisons-Laffitte, a Paris suburb, is set to receive a new high school for 750 students, funded by the Catholic Church and subsidized by the state. This reflects France's ongoing challenge to balance its Catholic heritage with secular values and the needs of its Muslim population. The local mayor, Jacques Myard, a defender of the secular state and advocate for the law banning religious symbols in state schools, brokered the deal. The arrangement follows a longstanding French model where religious schools adhere to the national curriculum, are open to all faiths, and minimize religious teaching in exchange for state funding.
Kim Jong Il and the World Food Program: UN must get tough on aid for North Korea
North Korea, under Kim Jong Il's regime, is seeking emergency aid from the United Nations for the 10th consecutive year due to self-inflicted famine. Critics argue that the aid enables the regime's survival and benefits military and party loyalists over the needy. The World Food Program's passive acceptance of North Korea's distribution demands is under scrutiny, with calls for stricter accountability and independent oversight. The article suggests that the UN's current approach may have broader negative implications for international aid in the face of global challenges like climate change.
Paris meets its Waterloo: a tale of man and dog
In Paris, a battle for equality is being waged over the provision of free toilets, with the city's homeless at a disadvantage compared to dogs who have access to free dog toilets. Sociologist Julien Damon highlights the inequality faced by humans who struggle to find public toilets. The city once had many free urinals, but these have been largely replaced by paid sanisettes. The Socialist-run city administration, with Yves Contassot overseeing the environment, is pushing for some free and handicapped-accessible toilets, with a contract renegotiation with JC Decaux due in 2006. Charity Emmaüs, represented by Alain Raillard, supports the move towards equality. The issue reflects broader concerns about urban planning and social equity.
People power in Europe: Wrangle over EU constitution masks a seismic shift
The draft constitution of the European Union, while not particularly inspiring, has sparked a significant debate about the future of Europe. The document's shortcomings, such as a lack of clarity in political structure and power demarcation, are acknowledged, but the history of European integration suggests a relentless power that may overcome these issues. External pressures from neighboring regions and internal forces, such as the changing perceptions of EU citizens and increased cross-border interactions, are driving Europe to take control of its destiny. The grassroots movements, cultural exchanges, and growing European identity may provide the impetus for a confident and diverse Europe to help shape the global future.
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