Paris: In a significant policy reversal, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced Friday that the government would abandon the contentious plan to eliminate two public holidays from the 2026 national budget. The proposal, initially introduced under the previous administration, had drawn sharp criticism from labor unions, opposition parties, and the general public, fueling political tension across the country.
The original plan was part of a broader effort to achieve fiscal consolidation, with the government aiming to save billions of euros as part of a €44 billion budgetary adjustment. However, the measure proved politically toxic, generating widespread protests and public dissatisfaction. Analysts suggest that the unpopularity of the proposal was a key factor in Lecornu’s decision to halt the reforms shortly after assuming office.
Speaking to La Provence, Prime Minister Lecornu stated, “I have decided to withdraw the plan to eliminate two public holidays. It is crucial that budgetary reforms are implemented with public trust and social dialogue in mind.” Lecornu emphasized that while fiscal discipline remains a priority, measures that disrupt social consensus or undermine citizens’ rights require careful reconsideration.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the broader fiscal challenges facing France. With Fitch Ratings recently downgrading the country’s sovereign rating to A+ due to political instability and growing public debt, Lecornu acknowledged that abandoning the holidays will require alternative strategies to close the budgetary gap. The government plans to engage in extensive consultations with political parties, trade unions, and economic stakeholders to identify sustainable measures that maintain social stability.
Political observers note that this decision reflects a pragmatic approach by Lecornu to balance fiscal responsibility with public sentiment. By prioritizing dialogue and consensus, the government aims to restore confidence in its economic management while avoiding measures that could provoke unrest.
As France moves toward finalizing its 2026 budget, all eyes will be on how the government navigates the complex challenge of reducing deficits without triggering social or political backlash. Lecornu’s decision to backtrack on the public holiday cuts marks a notable moment in the current administration’s attempt to reconcile economic reform with democratic governance.