MODERNITY/ For doctor and MP Jean-Michel Cucchi, Prince Albert II’s governance is “in tune with our times”.
Overall, what distinguishes Prince Albert’s mode of governance from his father’s?
It seems to me that we are fully in line with the Grimaldis, with this constant concern for modernism, opening to the world and social progress. Prince Albert II is a defender of the planet and a convinced humanist, as shown by his actions supporting the environment and sustainable development. The world is evolving constantly and today’s world no longer resembles yesterday’s, with the immediacy of information and networking on a global scale, among other things. So it is particularly the environment of this governance that has changed. The sovereign’s proximity to his subjects, his benevolent listening and desire for dialogue undoubtedly show that his mode of governance is in tune with our times.
And specifically regarding the Conseil National, is it the much talked about policy of a step towards the other?
The Monegasque State is special. A monarchical system certainly gives the Executive much power but the Conseil National is an important component of the apparatus. A step towards the other is what the government should do regarding the Conseil National, and vice-versa, as in that way we will move forward! The limits are found only in the relationship between these two entities. They often lie in the gap between representation of the national community embodied by the MPs and the pace of the administration, where the objectives are not always very clear. Basically, the seeking of consensus should remain in place so that the institutional machinery will work. That requires trust, respect, efficiency and voluntarism.
What are the main projects undertaken in these last 10 years?
It will be recalled later that the offshore extension was initiated in this period. The Yacht Club and the new Conseil National will certainly be recalled. We will remember the Tour Odéon, notwithstanding the unpleasant areas surrounding this case. I think we will remember the great facilities regarding housing for the Monegasques, and some legislative developments, especially in women’s rights as well as citizens’ rights. On a more personal level, how can we fail to mention the Prince’s marriage, and the birth of the princely children of course?
And your expectations for the future?
Everything must be done to continue to preserve our political, economic and social system. We must address the future of state housing to meet future demand and look ahead as much as possible to prevent too many Monegasques from being once again in a complicated situation, as in the early 2000s. We must continue to develop the economy in those hubs of excellence which represent Monaco’s dynamism and differentiated advantages. And consider the access roads to Monaco, and the change in the economy due to digital technology and connectivity. We must continue to be highly focused on the environment. Although we are the world’s second smallest country, we must look outwards without fear or any inward withdrawal – that is the key to rightly protect our nationals’ priority. Then the national community must not break up with the general election; I continue to advocate the broadest possible gathering of the Monegasques and different tendencies. One future challenge is this ability to evolve together, with respect, rallying with unwavering support for Prince Albert II, his wife and the entire royal family.
_Interview by Milena Radoman
