The government of French Prime Minister Michel Barnier is on the verge of collapse as right- and left-wing parties prepare to introduce a no-confidence vote. This political crisis stems from a budget dispute, with Barnier's administration facing significant opposition.
Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally (RN), announced on Monday that her party has submitted a no-confidence motion against Barnier. This move follows his attempt to push budget measures through without parliamentary approval. Left-wing factions have indicated they will support a similar motion, potentially securing enough votes to unseat the prime minister.
In a bid to salvage his government, Barnier announced the cancellation of electricity price hikes and a reduction in healthcare coverage for undocumented migrants, responding to demands from the far right. However, these concessions may not be sufficient, as Le Pen criticized Barnier for failing to adequately address her party's budgetary concerns.
To expedite the budget process, Barnier invoked Article 49.3 of the French Constitution, allowing him to implement the budget without a parliamentary vote. He urged lawmakers to avoid plunging the nation into a crisis, stating, “We have arrived at a moment of truth.”
A no-confidence vote is anticipated as early as Wednesday, marking a potential historical moment if Barnier is ousted, as it would be the first such vote since 1958. His tenure, which began in September under President Emmanuel Macron, could end as the shortest in modern French history.
Despite the potential fallout for his government, Macron will remain president until his term concludes in spring 2027. Should Barnier's administration fall, Macron may seek a new coalition or appoint a technocratic government until new legislative elections are possible next summer.
The ongoing budgetary conflict has affected French markets, with borrowing costs recently surpassing those of Greece, contributing to instability in France's financial landscape.