France’s Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, has announced the suspension of President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reform, initially planned for 2023, until after the 2027 presidential election. This decision aims to garner support from Socialist deputies in light of a potential no-confidence vote. The Socialist party currently holds a crucial position in a fragmented parliament.
Following Lecornu’s announcement, Socialist parliamentary leader Boris Vallaud indicated a cautious approach, celebrating the suspension but not definitively committing to voting against Lecornu’s government. A party deputy, Laurent Baumel, specified that while they would not support a motion of no confidence for now, future actions remain uncertain.
The centre-right party, Les Républicains (LR), has expressed support for the government, which changes the dynamics of no-confidence motions planned by far-right and radical-left groups that require Socialist backing to succeed. Lecornu previously resigned but was reappointed by Macron shortly thereafter, facing challenges in passing the upcoming austerity budget amidst a parliament without a clear majority.
Lecornu disclosed that suspending the pension reform, which includes raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, would cost the country €400 million in 2026 and €1.8 billion in 2027. This measure is expected to benefit 3.5 million individuals. He acknowledged the need for financial compensation through cost-saving strategies and emphasized the importance of parliamentary debate.
The political landscape in France is particularly complex due to a divided parliament established after the snap elections in 2024. Macron has warned that any further challenges to his government could lead to additional elections. Amid remaining tensions, Lecornu’s proposed budget intends to reduce the public deficit, striving to keep it below 5% of GDP.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/14/french-pm-sebastien-lecornu-suspends-macron-pension-plan-before-no-confidence-vote