Janice R. Andrews
French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled a new right-leaning government led by conservative Prime Minister Michel Barnier. This significant political shift comes two months after an inconclusive parliamentary election, aiming to stabilize France’s fragile political landscape.
Barnier, formerly the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, now faces the challenge of guiding a divided France through economic and political hurdles. His primary task is to submit a crucial 2025 budget plan to address France’s growing financial issues.
The new 39-member cabinet leans heavily conservative and centrist, notably excluding left-wing representatives. Key appointments include Jean-Noel Barrot as Foreign Minister, Bruno Retailleau as Interior Minister, Sébastien Lecornu retaining his Defense Minister role, and Antoine Armand as Finance Minister. Didier Migaud, a former Socialist, is the sole left-of-center figure as Justice Minister.
Barnier’s immediate focus is tackling France’s economic crisis, with the public-sector deficit expected to reach 5.6% of GDP this year and potentially exceeding 6% by 2025, far above the EU’s 3% ceiling. The 2025 budget, to be presented in October, will be a critical test for the new government.
This rightward shift has sparked political tensions. The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP), led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon, won the most seats in July’s election but couldn’t form a government. Macron’s decision to appoint Barnier instead has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum.
Protests have erupted in major French cities, with demonstrators arguing that the new government doesn’t reflect the election results. Many left-leaning voters feel their voices have been ignored.
Barnier’s government faces significant challenges in the National Assembly, where opposition parties have vowed to contest its legitimacy. His ability to unite a divided parliament and implement economic reforms will be crucial for his tenure as Prime Minister.
This conservative shift marks a turning point in Macron’s presidency. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping France’s political future as the country grapples with economic difficulties and political unrest.
