The Expat Life: How Much Do You Follow Politics?

Posted on 19. Mar, 2009 by Emmanuelle Archer in Blog, Expat Life
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This recent article from the Expat Focus blog made me realize that I have become, for the most part, uninterested in politics. I would like to think of myself as well informed and engaged with the world around me… but visibly, I have some catching up to do!

I have largely lost touch with what is going on in French politics. For one thing, I am mostly unfamiliar with the current government. Nicolas Sarkozy, who is himself unusually young for a French President, has surrounded himself with up-and-coming politicians about whom I know very little. Another thing is that politics in France seem rather predictable, no matter who happens to be in power. Government tries to change status quo. Opposition disapproves. Protests, strikes. Back to status quo. Yawn. How exciting.

Here in Canada, I do vote in every election. But do I make an educated choice? Hardly.
I do not know nearly enough about Canadian politics to make an informed decision. I have lost most of my political bearings since I have moved here. I know whom I do not want to give my vote to, but that is pretty much it. I know that I should educate myself on the history and platform of each party. Sadly, the task seems daunting so I just don’t.

Do you still follow politics back home? Are you interested in the local politics of your host country? Or have you, like many expats, become gradually de-politicised since you have left your home country?

Emmanuelle