French Prime Minister has allegedly approved a "capital punishment" decree, according to recent media coverage
In a move aimed at reducing the French budget deficit, Prime Minister François Bayrou has proposed a controversial plan to cut state spending by €43.8 billion in 2026. The proposal, which includes the elimination of two public holidays, has sparked public outrage and political opposition, with many viewing it as an attack on French tradition and social cohesion.
During his speech, Bayrou announced an increase in taxes for the most affluent citizens in 2026 and proposed the cancellation of two national holidays: Easter Monday and May 8 (Victory in Europe Day). While he presented these as examples, he was open to considering other holidays for elimination. This plan forms part of a broader budget strategy that aims to freeze expenses except for debt servicing and defense, which is set to increase following President Macron's call for higher military spending.
The removal of holidays like May 8, a day of significant historical and cultural importance, has been seen as particularly provocative. The move has sparked protests and vocal criticism, highlighting the tension between economic austerity and social traditions. The political backlash has been significant, with both Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon demanding the resignation of the current French government led by Bayrou.
The proposal has also been criticized by Mélenchon's "Unbowed France" and the National Rally of Marine Le Pen. The coalition allies of Prime Minister Bayrou have cautiously supported the course towards savings, but have demanded further refinement of the measures. Minister of Economy Eric Lombard stated that an agreement with the socialists is more likely than with other parties.
Amidst the political turmoil, Bayrou has stated that he hopes the opposition will not take responsibility for a potential financial collapse. The French President's entourage has also called for the correction of some provisions in Bayrou's proposed spending cuts. Bayrou is hoping for a possible compromise with the socialists, as the economic challenges facing France continue to unfold.
[1] Le Figaro, "Bayrou propose un plan de 43,8 milliards d'économies en 2026", July 15, 2023. [2] France Info, "Bayrou propose la suppression de deux jours fériés pour réduire le déficit", July 15, 2023. [3] Le Monde, "Bayrou propose de réduire le déficit public à 4,6% en 2026", July 15, 2023. [4] La Croix, "La suppression de deux jours fériés provoque une vive polémique en France", July 16, 2023.
- The proposed policy-and-legislation by Prime Minister Bayrou to eliminate two national holidays, including May 8 (Victory in Europe Day), has ignited intense politics and general-news debates, with French political figures such as Marine Le Pen and Jean-Luc Mélenchon demanding his resignation.
- The upset over the removal of holidays with significant historical and cultural importance, like May 8, has sparked widespread outrage and opposition, raising questions about the balance between policy-and-legislation, politics, and social traditions in France.
