High public service: a lack of historical culture among candidates for the INSP competitions, the former ENA

The report by Philippe Mahé highlights a concerning lack of historical knowledge among candidates for high public service positions in France. Many applicants struggle to identify key political figures and events from the last sixty years, often viewing the COVID-19 pandemic as the most recent historical reference. While candidates are encouraged to stay updated on current affairs, they must also understand the broader historical context to effectively analyze contemporary issues. The report emphasizes the need for a balance between immediate knowledge and a long-term historical perspective, which many candidates fail to achieve.