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Edith CressonPrime Minister of France
Date of Birth: 27.01.1934
Country:  France |
Content:
Biography of Edith Cresson
Born on January 27, 1934, in Boulogne-sur-Seine near Paris, Edith Cresson came from a wealthy aristocratic family. Her father was a financier, and she received her education in Catholic institutions.
Initially, Cresson took her first steps in politics within the conservative camp. However, in 1965, her family traditions took precedence as her father was a member of the Socialist Party. She actively participated in Francois Mitterrand's presidential campaign.
In the 1980s, Cresson held ministerial positions in Pierre Mauroy's cabinet. In May 1991, she made history by becoming the first female Prime Minister of France. Her husband, Jacques Cresson, was a member of the management team at Peugeot. The couple has two daughters, Nathalie and Alexandra.
Controversy and Legal Proceedings
In 1999, while serving as a European Commissioner, Cresson faced allegations of hiring a personal friend from her electoral district in France as a scientific advisor. This scandal led to the resignation of the entire European Commission, which was headed by Jacques Santer of Luxembourg. The case was examined by a Belgian court, which acknowledged that Cresson had become a victim of rumors.
However, a new legal investigation was initiated by Neil Kinnock, the Deputy Chairman of the European Commission. If Cresson is found guilty of abusing her position, she may lose her right to a pension entitled to former commissioners.
In November 2020, the European Court of Justice decided to close the case of Edith Cresson, the former Prime Minister of France, before the current composition of the European Commission led by Romano Prodi resigned.
