2026 Budget Debate Begins: Rapporteur Juvin Calls for Spending Cuts and Increased Productivity
PARIS – as the 2026 Social Security budget arrives at the National Assembly today, debate is intensifying over FranceS fiscal path. General budget rapporteur Philippe Juvin, speaking on Europe 1 this Tuesday morning, warned that the current lack of a parliamentary majority increases the likelihood of the budget being rejected, potentially forcing the government to enact a special law to govern spending for the next year.
The looming budget battle comes as France grapples with rising compulsory contributions – taxes and duties – which have climbed from 43% to over 45% of GDP. Juvin, a deputy for Hauts-de-Seine, argues against further tax increases, instead advocating for a two-pronged approach: reducing government spending and boosting national productivity through increased work. This debate unfolds against a backdrop of demographic shifts and evolving societal needs, especially concerning healthcare and education.
Juvin highlighted what he sees as misallocated resources within the proposed budget, specifically questioning the planned increase in civil servant positions in National Education at a time when student enrollment is declining and classes are being closed.He suggested prioritizing staffing increases in nursing homes to address the growing needs of an aging population, a point echoed in a recent Le Figaro report on the strain on France’s elder care system.
“We have room for maneuver,” Juvin stated, emphasizing the need for fiscal duty. The coming weeks will be critical as lawmakers attempt to navigate these competing priorities and reach a consensus on a budget that addresses both immediate economic challenges and long-term societal demands.