Major cities in France have long attracted workers, changing industries from agriculture to services and reshaping the country in turn. Yet the rural exodus has halted, with more people now moving to the country. Why are people leaving the city? And what’s to become of the French city-dweller?

Why is everyone watching Dix pour cent? How did TV anchor Cyril Hanouna become a national hero? And why are the French more eco-conscious than ever? This Cultural Snapshot uses local statistics and case studies to explore behavioural norms shared by French people in 2016.

The French are underwhelmed with the scandal-plagued politicians that are running for president, so some among them have decided to nominate their own candidate – former US president Barack Obama. And the fact that the rules don’t allow for a non-citizen to run doesn't seem to bother them.

Terror threats, political corruption, Brexit and a reality star turned US president – global politics doesn’t look good right now. But while a growing number of people are subscribing to high-quality journalism in droves, the French are opting to switch off the news instead.