Le Monde Front Page 4/12/2024
The front page of Le Monde leads on French political news.
- Michel Barnier activated article 49.3 on Monday to try to pass the Social Security budget to the National Assembly
- Two motions of censure were tabled immediately by the left and the far right
- Marine Le Pen indicated that his troops will vote for that of the New Popular Front, which would have the effect of bringing down the government
- The Prime Minister tried until the end to negotiate, publishing, on Monday, a press release announcing a concession to Marine Le Pen on drug reimbursement, without success
‘France on verge of economic and political meltdown’ – Paper Talk Europe
Several political stories dominate the bloc’s news today. The ongoing crisis facing the French government leads most websites. France is grappling with a mounting fiscal crisis, with government debt levels and budgetary constraints pushing the country into uncharted territory. PM Michel Barnier’s choice to force through the budget was always going to be an issue, and amid the turmoil far-right leader Marine Le Pen has emerged as a key figure capable of stabilising the political landscape.
France’s financial struggles carry significant implications for the EU. France’s inability to adhere to fiscal targets undermines broader EU economic stability.
The results of Ireland’s snap general election are expected to be tight as counting continues and no clear winner has emerged.
Georgia is in its fourth night of protesting as the country finds itself at a crossroads. The government’s push for a “Brexit-like” mandate clashes with growing demands from a minority faction advocating for closer ties with the European Union.