Parliamentary elections: what do the first round results mean for French politics?

France expands its military operation in Mali, while Islamist fighters vow revenge. We look at why France is involved and the various ways in which its allies are helping. Next, the French government says it won’t back down on legalising same-sex marriage, despite a massive protest against the bill at the weekend. Finally, all eyes are on Marseille, as the southern French city kicks off a marathon of cultural events, hoping to improve its reputation.

French troops are back from the Afghan frontline. But the transition is not always easy for those who bear psychological and physical wounds. Meanwhile, this year French expatriates will be represented by their own MPs. Our correspondents meet one of them in Chile. Finally, modern art hub Le Centre Pompidou has seen a boost to its visitor numbers, thanks to the Spanish master Salvador Dali.