French President Emmanuel Macron has officially introduced his new government, nearly three months following a snap general election that resulted in a hung parliament. The new lineup, headed by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, signals a significant shift to the right, despite a left-wing coalition securing the majority of parliamentary seats.
The collaboration between Macron’s centrist party and right-wing factions highlights the ongoing fragmentation within the parliament, necessitating alliances with other parties to push legislation forward. This political reshuffle occurs as the European Union warns France about its soaring debt, which currently surpasses EU fiscal guidelines.
Among the newly appointed cabinet members is Bruno Retailleau, a prominent figure in the conservative Republicans Party and former president Nicolas Sarkozy’s ally, who will now serve as the interior minister, overseeing immigration matters. A notable 10 politicians from the Republicans have secured cabinet positions, alongside several incumbents retained in pivotal roles. Close ally Sebastien Lecornu remains in charge of defense, while outgoing Europe minister Jean-Noel Barrot has ascended to foreign minister.
Only one left-wing figure, independent Didier Migaud, has been included in the cabinet as justice minister. The finance minister role has been assigned to Antoine Armand of Macron’s Renaissance party, who must prepare the government’s budget bill by the year’s end to tackle France’s alarming deficit.
The European Union previously cautioned France about potential disciplinary actions for breaching fiscal regulations. France’s public-sector deficit is projected to hover around 5.6% of GDP this year and exceed 6% in 2025, far above the EU’s 3% cap.
Michel Barnier, a seasoned conservative and former EU chief Brexit negotiator, has taken on the prime ministerial role as he strives to establish a government capable of navigating the divided National Assembly. Members of the left-wing coalition, the New Popular Front (NFP), have expressed intentions to introduce a no-confidence motion against the new government, following their notable electoral success that nonetheless fell short of an outright majority.
Before the cabinet announcement, thousands of left-wing demonstrators gathered in Paris, voicing discontent over what they perceive as a disregard for the left’s electoral achievements. The alliance between centrist and conservative factions is insufficient to independently pass legislation, underscoring the necessity of support from other parties, including Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally, to maintain legislative momentum and governance.
