Macron’s government collapses … again

France is experiencing a significant political crisis as Prime Minister François Bayrou was ousted following a failed confidence vote about his austerity budget, marking the third prime minister to fall in a year. The proposed budget, which included unpopular measures such as scrapping bank holidays and freezing welfare spending, faced fierce opposition across the political spectrum. Critics attributed the rising debt—114% of GDP—to poor fiscal management and high public spending, while Bayrou aimed to address the growing financial crisis by calling the vote himself, acknowledging his impending ousting.

Despite calls for more comprehensive actions, Bayrou's proposals were shot down in Parliament, highlighting the strained political situation under President Emmanuel Macron, whose centrist party lacks a majority. The political climate has given rise to widespread dissatisfaction among the populace, represented by protests and mock resignation parties for Bayrou. Macron's government has since appointed a new prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, who has been criticized for failing to compromise amidst a deeply divided governing body.

The political unrest is compounded by a rising popularity of far-right parties like Marine Le Pen's National Rally, as citizens express growing mistrust in the political elite and dissatisfaction with public services. Macron's administration is now faced with urgency to address the discontent and implement effective reforms amidst escalating social tensions and the looming risk of further protests.