On December 4, 2024, French lawmakers are expected to vote on no-confidence motions that will likely result in the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier, marking the first such event in over six decades. The political turmoil comes as France grapples with a significant budget deficit.
The no-confidence vote is anticipated to pass with support from both left-wing parties and the far-right National Rally (RN), who together hold enough votes to topple the government. Barnier expressed hope for his government's survival despite the overwhelming opposition.
The current political landscape in France is notably fragmented, with no single party holding a majority. The vote follows the rejection of the 2025 budget, which only received backing from Macron's party and a minor traditional right faction.
If the motion succeeds, President Emmanuel Macron will need to appoint a new prime minister, a process complicated by constitutional constraints that prevent new legislative elections until mid-2025. Macron has suggested potential candidates, including Defense Minister Sébastian Lecornu and centrist François Bayrou.
In a statement from Saudi Arabia, Macron expressed confidence that the motion may not succeed, dismissing calls for his resignation as unrealistic. The political instability has raised concerns over its impact on the European Union, particularly given Germany's own political challenges.
Economists warn that the ongoing crisis could lead to increased financial strain on businesses and taxpayers, although they do not foresee an immediate sovereign debt crisis.