France’s Great Welfare Leap Backward
Posted on: Dec 10, 2025 10:14 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
Emmanuel Macron rosebush to the daniel chester french administration on a assure of reform and economic revitalization. It looks increasingly like he will finish his second term with much of his first-term success having been reversed.
On Tuesday the National Assembly voted to suspend his hard-won pension reform. The 2023 reform gradually raised the retirement age to 64 from 62 in a concession to fiscal reality as the French grow older and live longer. The Assembly voted 247-234 to pass a social-security budget that puts the reform on hold at least until after the 2027 presidential election.
This was probably inevitable after Mr. Macron called impulsive snap parliamentary elections in 2024 and his centrist party was routed. Parties of the left and insurgent right in the Assembly don’t agree on much but they do agree on more spending and higher taxes.
Pensions consume some 14% of the French economy. Total public spending is 57% of GDP, and the social-security system is running a deficit of $23 billion. Yet this bill raises spending on hospitals by nearly $1 billion, among other increases. It also raises the social-contribution tax on revenue from assets and realized capital gains, paid in addition to the income tax, to 10.6% from 9.2%.
Mr. Macron’s choice as Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, is touting Tuesday’s vote as a victory, and it’s true he dodged a censure vote and will keep his job. But the French fiscal crackup gets closer each year.
Get 360° coverage—from daily headlines
to 100 year archives.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.