Richard Parks French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government collapsed on Wednesday after a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. This is the first time in over 60 years that such a vote has succeeded. The vote came after Barnier used Article 49.3 of the Constitution to push through the 2025 social security budget without a parliamentary vote, facing opposition from the left-wing NFP coalition and the far-right National Rally (RN).
What’s Next for Macron and France’s Future?
Barnier is expected to remain as a caretaker prime minister, managing current issues but unable to pass new laws. President Macron now faces the challenge of nominating a new prime minister, a decision complicated by the fragmented National Assembly, where no party holds a clear majority. The new prime minister will need to survive a confidence vote, a process that could take months.
Although Macron’s term lasts until 2027, some are calling for his resignation due to the political chaos. However, analysts warn that resignation would only add to the confusion. If no budget is passed by December 20, the government can use constitutional powers to enact it by decree, though this remains a temporary fix. The EU remains concerned about France’s deficit, which exceeds the 3% GDP limit.