Former Wrestler Becomes MP to Fight France’s Housing Crisis
Shéhérazade Bentorki has officially stepped into her role as the Member of Parliament for France’s 8th constituency, representing the northern territories of Roubaix and Wattrelos. Her ascension to the National Assembly marks a significant shift in local representation, as she takes over from David Guiraud. Guiraud vacated the seat following his election as Mayor of Roubaix on March 27, triggering the French ‘non-cumul des mandats’ law, which prevents officials from holding multiple major executive roles simultaneously.
Bentorki, who previously served as Guiraud’s parliamentary assistant and substitute, is no stranger to the political landscape of the Hauts-de-France region. However, her transition from the shadows of the deputy’s office to the benches of the Palais Bourbon comes at a critical juncture for French domestic policy, particularly regarding the nation’s aging housing stock.
Confronting the Energy Efficiency Crisis in Rental Markets
The centerpiece of Bentorki’s legislative agenda is a firm opposition to the proposed relaxation of energy performance standards. France is currently grappling with a category of housing known as ‘passoires énergétiques’—literally ‘energy sieves.’ These are properties with the lowest Energy Performance Diagnostic (DPE) ratings, specifically classes F and G, which are notorious for high utility costs and poor insulation.
A proposed housing recovery bill, slated for discussion in late June, suggests easing the restrictions on re-renting these energy-inefficient homes. For Bentorki, this is a non-negotiable point of contention. She argues that allowing substandard housing back onto the market, rather than investing in social housing and renovation, is a failure of public dignity.
“Responding to the need for housing by re-renting indecent accommodation instead of building social housing is absolutely not a solution,” Bentorki stated. She emphasizes that the housing crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including children who lack adequate study space and individuals with disabilities who find very few accessible options in the current market. This debate mirrors similar discussions in the UK regarding Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and the challenges of upgrading Victorian-era rental properties.
From High-Level Sport to the National Assembly
Bentorki’s approach to politics is heavily influenced by her background as a high-level athlete. A former competitive wrestler, she attributes her discipline and endurance to the rigours of the sport. During her training years, she balanced seven hours of daily physical practice with the study of political science, a dual commitment that she believes prepared her for the grueling schedule of a parliamentarian.
Currently, her week is split between the high-stakes environment of Paris and the local needs of her constituency. From Monday to Thursday morning, she sits on the Finance Committee at the National Assembly, where she advocates for the ‘Green Fund.’ This initiative aims to accelerate ecological transitions at the local level, such as retrofitting schools to create ‘islands of freshness’—green spaces designed to combat rising urban temperatures.
A Local Mandate with National Implications
From Thursday afternoon through the weekend, Bentorki returns to Roubaix and Wattrelos. This ‘fieldwork’ is what she describes as her ‘fuel.’ As a woman from a working-class background, she views her presence in the National Assembly as a vital representation of often-overlooked territories.
Her focus remains local, yet her legislative battles over housing and ecology carry weight for the entire country. By refusing to compromise on housing standards, Bentorki is positioning herself as a champion for tenant rights in an era of rising living costs. As the housing recovery bill moves toward the floor, all eyes will be on how this former athlete navigates the complex wrestling match of French parliamentary negotiation.
Source: Roubaix XL
