“Vive la French Touch!”: Macron Demands UNESCO Recognition for France’s Iconic Electronic Music Legacy in Bold Cultural Move

Vivian Ho

By Vivian HoPublished June 25, 2025

Illustration of French President Emmanuel Macron advocating for the cultural recognition of French touch electronic music (AI-generated, non-realistic illustration). Credit: Ideogram.

In a bold cultural move, French President Emmanuel Macron is advocating for the recognition of “French touch” electronic music as a UNESCO cultural heritage. This genre, which includes iconic acts like Daft Punk, has long been celebrated for its innovative blend of house, dance, electro, and more. Macron’s initiative aims to solidify this music style’s role in cultural history, akin to Berlin’s techno scene or Jamaican reggae. As France seeks to cement its position as a pioneer in electronic music, the president’s call reflects a broader desire to preserve and promote the nation’s rich artistic legacy.

The Origins of French Touch

The term “French touch” refers to a style of electronic music that emerged in the 1990s, characterized by its blend of house, dance, and electro, often incorporating elements from other genres like disco and jazz. Spearheaded by influential artists such as Daft Punk, Étienne de Crécy, and Bob Sinclair, this movement quickly gained international recognition. Unlike other electronic music scenes, French touch was defined more by its geographical roots and innovative style than adherence to a specific sound. The genre’s unique blend of sampling and rhythm helped it stand out on the global stage, cementing its place in the history of electronic music.

The influence of French touch extends beyond its musical innovation. Artists from this genre have contributed significantly to the global perception of electronic music, challenging traditional norms and introducing fresh, bold sounds. As the genre evolved, it maintained its core elements while adapting to new trends, illustrating its versatility and enduring appeal. The legacy of French touch is evident in contemporary music, where echoes of its signature style continue to inspire new generations of artists.

Macron’s Call for Cultural Recognition

President Emmanuel Macron’s recent push to have French touch recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage represents a significant step in acknowledging the genre’s cultural importance. In an interview, Macron highlighted the genre’s profound impact on the global music scene, asserting that France is a pioneer in electronic music. This move is not just about honoring the past but also about ensuring the preservation and recognition of French touch for future generations.

UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage includes practices and expressions that communities and nations deem vital to their identity. By seeking inclusion on this list, Macron aims to elevate French touch to the same status as other cultural phenomena like Jamaican reggae and Irish harp music. This initiative reflects a broader strategy to promote France’s rich cultural heritage and reinforce its standing as a leader in creative innovation. Macron’s call underscores the importance of recognizing and preserving cultural practices that continue to shape global artistic landscapes.

Comparisons with Berlin Techno

Macron’s efforts come on the heels of Berlin’s techno scene being added to Germany’s cultural heritage list. Like French touch, Berlin techno has had a significant impact on electronic music, shaping the cultural fabric of its locale. The parallels between the two genres highlight the role that geographical and cultural contexts play in the development of music. Both movements have roots in their respective cities, drawing influence from local culture and innovation.

Berlin’s recognition by UNESCO serves as a precedent for Macron’s push for French touch. It demonstrates the significance of electronic music as a cultural force capable of transcending borders and influencing global trends. By advocating for French touch’s inclusion, Macron seeks to ensure that France’s contributions to electronic music are acknowledged alongside other pivotal movements. This recognition would not only honor the genre’s past but also pave the way for its continued evolution and influence in the music industry.

The Future of French Touch

As Macron champions the inclusion of French touch in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list, the future of this genre looks promising. The recognition would not only validate the efforts of pioneers like Daft Punk but also inspire a new wave of artists to continue the tradition of innovation. French touch’s influence is already evident in contemporary music, with many artists drawing inspiration from its distinctive sound and style.

The potential UNESCO designation could lead to increased support for French touch artists and events, fostering an environment that encourages creativity and experimentation. It would also reinforce France’s position as a cultural leader, showcasing the country’s commitment to preserving and promoting its artistic heritage. As the global music landscape continues to evolve, the continued relevance and impact of French touch will depend on the dedication of artists, fans, and cultural advocates alike.

With Macron’s advocacy for French touch as a cultural heritage, France is taking a decisive step toward recognizing and preserving its musical legacy. This move raises important questions about the role of cultural heritage in shaping national identity and artistic innovation. Will other nations follow suit, recognizing their own unique contributions to the global music scene? And how will this influence the future of electronic music on a global scale?

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Vivian Ho

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vivian is a dynamic writer with a wide-ranging interest in the world around her. Her work spans topics from lifestyle and sports to science, environment, and world affairs. Drawing from her academic and travel experiences, Maya brings a global perspective and a human-centered lens to every piece she writes. She believes every subject—big or small—deserves thoughtful exploration and storytelling.

4 comments

  • Vive la French Touch! This genre has given us such incredible music. I’m all for it being recognized globally.

  • Haha, I wonder if Macron is a secret Daft Punk fan. Maybe we’ll see him DJing next! 🤔

  • Can someone explain what exactly qualifies a music genre for UNESCO recognition? This seems like a big deal!

  • brooklyn_wanderer

    That’s awesome! 🥳 French touch definitely deserves a spot on the UNESCO list. Daft Punk’s music shaped my college years. Thanks, Macron!

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