Emmanuel Macron: Why Was the French President Wearing Sunglasses Indoors at Davos?

The Unusual Eyewear at Davos: Emmanuel Macron’s Sunglasses Controversy

Why was French President Emmanuel Macron wearing sunglasses indoors during his address at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos? The question sparked curiosity and discussion among attendees, drawing attention to a seemingly ordinary yet intriguing detail.

A Closer Look at the Eyewear

During his speech on Tuesday, Macron donned striking blue reflective aviator sunglasses, a look that stood out against the otherwise formal setting. While he did not explain the reason for wearing this accessory during his address, French reports suggested it was due to an ongoing medical condition.

Medical Context: Sub-Conjunctival Haemorrhage

The French leader has previously worn similar glasses at a military event in southern France last week. At that time, he appeared with a red eye and downplayed the condition, stating it was “totally benign” and “completely insignificant.” He even joked about it, referring to his condition as “l’oeil du tigre,” or the “eye of the tiger,” in reference to the rock band Survivor’s song used in the 1982 boxing movie Rocky III. “For those who get the reference, it’s a sign of determination,” he said.

Medical experts noted that Macron might have been experiencing a sub-conjunctival haemorrhage, which is a broken blood vessel in his eye. This condition is harmless, painless, and does not affect vision.

It usually clears within two weeks and does not cause permanent injury to the eye. Factors such as vigorous sneezing or coughing can contribute to this issue, particularly among those with diabetes or high blood pressure.

Macron’s Speech and Criticism of Trump

While his choice of sunglasses garnered attention, Macron’s speech focused on more pressing issues. He sternly rebuked US President Donald Trump for threatening tariffs against eight European countries opposed to his proposed takeover of Greenland. In a strong warning against the rise of autocracy, Macron warned against a world “without rules” and criticized imperial ambitions resurfacing.

“A world without rules, where international law is trampled underfoot,” he said, emphasizing the need for adherence to established norms in global governance. His criticism extended to Trump’s use of tariffs as leverage against territorial sovereignty, stating that such actions would be used “as a means to exert imperial ambitions.”

Public Perception and Social Media Reaction

The decision to wear sunglasses has stirred discussion on social media platforms. Some users called Macron “kéké,” French slang for someone who is showy or boastful, while others jokingly referred to him as a “cyborg” or suggested he was emulating the iconic aviator glasses worn by actor Tom Cruise in the 1986 film Top Gun.

Macron’s speech, however, remained focused on his political messages. He underscored the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order and criticized unilateral actions that undermine global cooperation. His comments came as tensions between the United States and European countries continued to escalate over trade policies and geopolitical strategies.

Conclusion

A Controversial Eyewear Choice in a High-Stakes Setting

The controversy surrounding Emmanuel Macron’s sunglasses at Davos highlights the complex interplay of personal health, political symbolism, and media scrutiny in high-profile diplomatic events. While his choice may have drawn attention away from the gravity of his political statements, it also underscored the multifaceted nature of public perception and media coverage.

As the World Economic Forum continues to address pressing global issues, such as trade tensions and geopolitical stability, Emmanuel Macron’s unusual eyewear has become a memorable detail in what is shaping up to be a pivotal gathering for world leaders.