Guillaume Trichard returns as Grand Master of Grand Orient of France

Guillaume Trichard has been re-elected as the Grand Master of the Grand Orient of France, marking a significant return to leadership for the Masonic obedience. Trichard, who previously served in the role during the 2023-2024 term, was chosen by his peers in Bordeaux on Friday, August 28. His re-election is particularly noteworthy as it is the first time in 37 years that a former Grand Master has returned to lead the organization.

Trichard, 50, is a graduate of the Institut Mines-Télécom Business School and has built a career within large industrial groups. He currently holds the position of national legal department head at UNSA (Union nationale des syndicats autonomes). His return to the Grand Master role comes with renewed ambitions, especially in the face of rising populism, which he believes the Grand Orient has a "historical role to play" in addressing.

In an exclusive interview with Le Figaro, Trichard explained that the Grand Master is elected for a one-year term. After completing his previous mandate, he had to step down before being eligible to run again. The intervening period, from 2024 to 2026, allowed him to visit various lodges, presumably to gauge support and prepare for his potential return to leadership.

The Grand Orient of France, one of the oldest and largest Masonic obediences in the world, plays a role in French society beyond its spiritual or philosophical tenets. Trichard's emphasis on confronting populism suggests a desire to engage with contemporary political and social issues, positioning the organization as a relevant force in public discourse. His renewed mandate is expected to focus on strengthening the obedience's influence and addressing the challenges posed by current political trends.