The intersection of global trade, geopolitical maneuvering, and historical financial practices was a central theme in discussions on France Culture’s “Les Matins” program today. Conversations ranged from Russia’s increasing digital isolation to the surprisingly sophisticated methods of tax evasion employed even during the era of absolute monarchy, and featured insights from former World Trade Organization Director-General Pascal Lamy.
A key focus was the recent reports of Russia curtailing internet access, a move that raises concerns about information control and potential disruption of daily life. Journalist Paul Gogo, author of the forthcoming book Moscou Parano. La Russie de Poutine mise à nu (Editions du Rocher, March 2026), discussed the motivations behind this “digital blackout,” framing it as a continuation of the Kremlin’s long-standing efforts to exert greater control over its population and suppress dissent. Gogo’s analysis suggests this isn’t simply about technical infrastructure, but a deliberate strategy to insulate Russia from external influences and maintain power. Le Monde reports on recent Russian cybersecurity exercises designed to test the resilience of the country’s internet infrastructure.
The Weight of European Autonomy
Pascal Lamy’s segment centered on the question of European strategic autonomy – whether the European Union can and should strive to grow more self-reliant in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical competition. Lamy, who also co-founded and serves as vice-president of the Fondation Jacques Delors Friends of Europe and is vice-president of the Paris Peace Forum, argued that while complete independence isn’t realistic or even desirable, Europe needs to bolster its capabilities in key areas. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the EU’s industrial base, investing in research and development, and forging strategic partnerships with like-minded nations.
Lamy cautioned against protectionism, advocating instead for a more nuanced approach that balances openness with the require to protect European interests. He pointed to the challenges posed by the rise of China and the potential disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine as catalysts for a re-evaluation of Europe’s strategic priorities. He stressed that Europe’s strength lies in its ability to project soft power and uphold multilateralism, but that this requires a stronger economic and political foundation. “We need to be realistic about the world as it is, not as we wish it to be,” Lamy stated, emphasizing the need for pragmatic solutions.
Echoes of the Past: Tax Evasion Under the Ancien Régime
Shifting gears dramatically, the program also explored the surprisingly sophisticated world of tax evasion during France’s Ancien Régime. Joseph Enguehard, a doctoral candidate at the Centre de recherche économique sur la gouvernance, les inégalités et les conflits at the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon, presented research detailing the various methods employed by the wealthy to avoid paying taxes to the French crown. Cairn.info provides academic research on historical tax systems and evasion techniques.
Enguehard explained that while the modern concept of tax evasion often involves complex offshore schemes, the strategies used centuries ago were often remarkably inventive, relying on loopholes in the law, exploiting ambiguities in property ownership, and leveraging the influence of powerful families. He highlighted the role of “fermiers généraux” – private tax collectors who were granted the right to collect taxes on behalf of the crown – in facilitating these practices. These collectors often engaged in corrupt practices, allowing wealthy individuals to avoid taxes in exchange for bribes or other favors. The system, Enguehard argued, contributed to the growing resentment towards the monarchy and ultimately played a role in the French Revolution.
A System of Privileges and Loopholes
Enguehard’s research revealed that tax avoidance wasn’t limited to the aristocracy. Merchants and even members of the bourgeoisie found ways to minimize their tax burden, often by exploiting regional variations in tax laws or by concealing their wealth. The system was characterized by a complex web of privileges and exemptions, creating a deeply unequal playing field. The nobility, for example, often enjoyed significant tax exemptions, while the peasantry bore the brunt of the tax burden. This disparity fueled social tensions and contributed to the growing sense of injustice that ultimately led to the upheaval of 1789.
The discussion underscored a striking parallel between historical and contemporary tax evasion: the fundamental principle of exploiting legal loopholes to minimize tax liabilities. While the methods have become more sophisticated, the underlying motivation – to reduce one’s tax burden – remains constant. This historical perspective offers a valuable lens through which to examine the ongoing debate about tax fairness and the challenges of combating tax evasion in the 21st century.
Russia’s Digital Control: Implications and Future Steps
Returning to the issue of Russia’s internet controls, Gogo emphasized the potential for these measures to further isolate the country and stifle dissent. He noted that while a complete shutdown of the internet is unlikely, the Kremlin is actively working to create a “sovereign internet” – a closed network that would allow it to control the flow of information within Russia. This, he argues, would have profound implications for freedom of expression and access to information. The move also raises concerns about the potential for increased surveillance and censorship.
The next key development to watch will be the implementation of the recent regulations governing internet traffic within Russia, and the extent to which the Kremlin is able to successfully isolate its internet infrastructure. Further analysis from organizations like Reporters Without Borders will be crucial in monitoring the situation and assessing the impact on freedom of expression. Reporters Without Borders provides ongoing coverage of press freedom issues in Russia.
The discussions on France Culture’s “Les Matins” program highlighted the interconnectedness of these seemingly disparate issues – from the challenges of European autonomy to the historical roots of tax evasion and the growing threat to internet freedom. These conversations underscore the importance of informed public discourse and critical analysis in navigating the complex challenges facing the world today.
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