Empathetic Leadership in Times of ‘War’ as Represented by President Emmanuel Macron

This paper utilises Stephanie Paterson’s empathic policy analysis framework as it explores the discursive co nstruction of political leadership. The research focuses on the empathy French President Emmanuel Macron used during his public speech, delivered on October 12, 2023. The study identifies two emotional discourses that shape this representation of empathetic political leadership. The article analyses the assumptions underpinning this representation and the silences (that which has been left unspoken or implied) associated with it, as well as important implications for people’s lives.