France's Safety Net: Victory or Disaster? 🇫🇷🗳️

World News

Budget Battle Won: Social Security Spending Approved
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu secured a crucial victory in the 2026 Budget negotiations, with the Assemblée nationale voting 247-234 in favor of the Sécu (social security) spending portion on Tuesday evening. This outcome, despite lacking a parliamentary majority, was celebrated by Lecornu as a demonstration of a “responsible majority.”

Pension Reform Suspension Fuels Support
A key element driving the vote’s passage was the inclusion of a clause suspending the highly contentious 2023 French pension reforms. This decision, securing the support of the centre-left Parti Socialiste, proved vital in overcoming opposition and garnering the necessary votes.

A Historic Vote: Avoiding Article 49.3
The passage of the 2026 Budget marks a significant milestone: it’s the first time since 2022 that a budget has been approved without utilizing Article 49.3, the constitutional tool that would have bypassed a prior parliamentary debate. This avoidance highlights a collaborative approach to budget negotiations.

Revenue Spending Still Under Debate
While the Sécu portion has been approved, the fight for the 2026 Budget is far from over. The second part – addressing revenue spending – remains under consideration in the Senate and is expected to return to the Assemblée nationale for final voting before Christmas.

Premier Lecornu Urged to Proceed Carefully
Leading up to the vote, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu actively sought alliances with opposition parties, emphasizing the importance of passing the bill, stating, “This social security budget bill is not perfect, but it is the best possible.”