French government pushes 2026 budget past lawmakers
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In France, authorities have decided to use a constitutional mechanism to approve next year’s budget after the bill failed to pass in parliament. The move has already sparked strong reactions from opposition political forces, according to Ukrinform.
Why the budget failed to gain support
The French government intends to pass the 2026 state budget using Article 49.3 of the Constitution.
This step was taken after the bill failed to secure a majority in the National Assembly. The decision was announced following a Cabinet meeting.
Use of Article 49.3
At a briefing, the head of the French government announced his readiness to take responsibility for passing the revenue part of the finance bill.
He emphasized that the decision was not easy and came with internal doubts, as he had previously stated his intention to seek a compromise in parliament rather than using the direct approval mechanism.
“We have decided, and I must say this with some regret and bitterness, that the government will take responsibility, which I will do tomorrow for the revenue part of the finance bill,” he said.
Opposition reaction
Criticism was also directed at far-right and far-left parties, which were accused of deliberately trying to block the budget’s approval.
Almost immediately after the announcement, two opposition forces, National Rally and France Insoumise, declared their intention to initiate a vote of no confidence against the government.
Possible consequences
The vote of no confidence is scheduled for Thursday in the National Assembly. For the government to be dismissed, the opposition would need the support of at least 289 deputies. The Socialist Party could play a key role in the vote, and they have already stated that they do not plan to support the motion of no confidence.
The French president has informed parliament of plans to send up to 6,000 French troops to Ukraine after a peace agreement is signed. The plan envisions deploying the contingent only after active hostilities have ended.
Additionally, the French Ministry of Armed Forces has announced the launch of a revised national service program, which is voluntary and strictly military in nature, replacing the previous Service National Universel model.
