Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, discusses global crises, threats to Europe, monetary policy, France’s economic outlook, climate issues, and her personal reflections in an interview conducted in September 2026.
Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB), conducted interviews on 16 and 28 September 2026 with Jean-Claude Bourbon and Marie Dancer. She reflected on her experience through major crises, including the 2008 financial crisis, the Greek debt crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent geopolitical conflicts.
Lagarde highlighted the interconnectedness of crises, emphasizing the impact of energy and raw material pressures, especially due to the Middle East conflict. She identified energy prices as the most immediate threat to the European economy and discussed the geopolitical shifts affecting Europe’s economic pillars: energy supply, export markets, and security alliances.
Regarding ECB monetary policy, she noted the rate hikes in June and September 2026 aimed at controlling inflation amid supply shocks, while closely monitoring economic activity. She addressed France’s economic performance, noting a growth forecast of 0.9% for the euro area and 0.5% for France, citing high public debt and investment needs as challenges.
Lagarde discussed reforms needed in France, including tax policies, pension systems, and European integration, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and trust. She expressed her opposition to debt cancellation proposals, citing risks to investor confidence and legal constraints.
On her future plans, she stated she will remain in office until at least 2027 but may leave a few months early. She dismissed speculation about political motives related to upcoming French elections and emphasized her focus on serving the European public interest.
She shared personal insights, encouraging young girls to dream big and remain open-minded. She reflected on her family environment, European values, faith, and the importance of dialogue and inclusiveness in societal change. She also expressed her views on climate change, the role of the ECB in green transition, and the influence of faith and cultural heritage.
Lagarde concluded by emphasizing the importance of trust, respect, and collective effort in addressing societal challenges, advocating for dialogue with civil society and intermediary bodies to foster lasting change.
