Why did French conservatives emphasize law and order during Nicolas Sarkozy’s political rise?

During the political rise of Nicolas Sarkozy, French conservatives emphasized "law and order" primarily as a response to widespread social unrest and perceived threats to national stability.1

In late 2005, the accidental deaths of two immigrant teenagers triggered intense rioting in the suburbs of Paris and other cities, resulting in thousands of arrests and the destruction of nearly 9,000 vehicles. These riots were fueled by deep-seated issues, including high unemployment, discrimination, and a lack of opportunity within immigrant communities.234

Sarkozy, serving as interior minister at the time, adopted a hard-line stance against the protesters, which resonated with many conservative voters who favored firm police resistance and stricter immigration policies. This focus on law and order became a unifying theme for French conservatives, who were also concerned about the perceived erosion of traditional French values—such as secularism in public education—in the face of increasing immigration. By championing these policies, Sarkozy positioned himself as a decisive leader capable of addressing public anxiety, ultimately helping him secure the presidency in 2007.14