France’s National Assembly unanimously rejected the government’s proposed 2027 budget on Wednesday, deepening the country’s political and financial uncertainty. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s government had proposed €54 billion ($61.8 billion) in spending cuts to reduce the budget deficit.
The rejection comes as France prepares for nationwide strikes on Thursday, with hundreds of thousands expected to join protests over the rising cost of living and economic inequality. Authorities have deployed 70,000 police officers and gendarmes to prevent violence as demonstrations spread across the country.
France’s financial position is also raising concerns among investors. The budget deficit reached 5.1% of GDP in 2025, while public debt climbed to 115.6% of GDP. Rising borrowing costs have added further pressure on government finances.
With parliament deeply divided, analysts expect Lecornu to use constitutional powers to push the budget through without a formal vote. However, economists warn that weaker-than-expected growth could prevent France from meeting its deficit targets, leaving the government facing continued political and economic challenges.
