French Prime Minister François Bayrou has proposed the idea of a referendum concerning France’s 2026 budget, aiming to address the nation’s public deficit. In an interview with the Journal du Dimanche, Bayrou emphasized the critical nature of the economic situation and suggested that the people of France should have a direct say in such a significant decision. He underscored that any successful plan to reduce public expenditure by €40 billion and maintain fiscal health aligns with European guidelines, will require substantial public backing.
Bayrou’s plan faces skepticism from various political factions, with critics such as Laurent Wauquiez of Les Républicains and Eric Coquerel of La France Insoumise party expressing strong opposition. They argue that bypassing parliament to hold a referendum on economic policy undermines democratic processes.
According to France’s constitution, only the president can authorize a referendum on economic matters upon the government’s recommendation or that of both parliamentary houses. While President Emmanuel Macron’s stance on the potential referendum is unclear, he is due to address the nation on May 13, which may provide more insight into his plans. Bayrou and Macron’s intention to hold such a referendum faces legal and political hurdles, indicating a complex and contentious path ahead.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/05/08/can-frances-prime-minister-call-a-referendum-on-the-budget
