Today in Focus

Macron’s government collapses … again

26 snips
Sep 10, 2025
Angelique Chrisafis, The Guardian's Paris correspondent, dives into the whirlwind of political upheaval in France as Macron faces his third prime ministerial resignation in a year. She highlights the chaos sparked by a failed confidence vote and examines the public's furious protests against the government. The discussion also touches on the rise of the far-right amidst this turmoil and the challenges Macron faces with a fractured parliament and discontent among citizens. It's a gripping look at the implications for France's future.
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INSIGHT

Budget Failures Stem From Division

  • France's budget struggle stems from a divided parliament and entrenched debt rather than a single policy failure.
  • Bayrou pushed unpopular austerity measures without building cross-party consensus, ensuring likely defeat.
INSIGHT

Debt Payments Now Dominate The Budget

  • France carries a high public debt burden at about 114% of GDP and rising debt payments dominate the budget.
  • Bayrou framed cuts as urgent because debt servicing is becoming the single biggest budget expense.
ANECDOTE

Barnier Appointment Backfired

  • After a snap election produced a hung parliament, Macron appointed Michel Barnier to shore up support from the right.
  • That choice backfired and Barnier lasted three months, illustrating the fragility of Macron's coalition.
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