French Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s government collapsed on Wednesday after a no-confidence vote in the National Assembly, the first such occurrence in over six decades. Barnier faced strong opposition from both the left-wing NFP coalition and the far-right National Rally (RN) party after using Article 49.3 of the Constitution to push through the 2025 social security budget without parliamentary approval.

What Happens Now for Macron and France’s Future?

Barnier is expected to remain as a caretaker prime minister, handling ongoing matters but unable to pass new legislation. President Macron will now have to appoint a new prime minister, though this will be a difficult task due to the fragmented National Assembly, where no party holds a clear majority. The new prime minister will need to secure a confidence vote, a process that could take several months.

Although some are calling for Macron’s resignation due to the political crisis, analysts suggest that stepping down could worsen the situation. If no budget is passed by December 20, the government can use constitutional powers to enact it by decree, though this would only be a temporary fix. France’s budget deficit, currently above the EU’s 3% threshold, remains a key concern.