Violent Student Protests Loom Over France’s Budget Proposal
Paris is hoping to rein in the country’s deficit and avoid another no-confidence vote.
France’s 2027 budget proposal has ignited violent student protests and heightened political uncertainty. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu unveiled the plan amid economic concerns, with inflation at 3.4 percent and the deficit projected at 5.4 percent of GDP by year-end. The proposal includes a $7.2 billion increase in defense spending, freezing public-sector wages, and raising taxes, which could save $60.7 billion.
However, the measures have sparked protests over staffing shortages and poor building maintenance. Meanwhile, the UK's yearlong migration deal with France expired without renewal, affecting the return of some illegal immigrants. Meanwhile, China's possible invasion of Taiwan seems increasingly unlikely, with U.S. officials predicting a wait until after Taiwan's 2028 general election.
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