French lawmakers approved the 2026 social security budget in a tense vote, offering Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu a short-term political victory but exposing deep fractures within the government. The bill passed by just 13 votes, emphasizing the fragile state of a parliament where no party holds a majority.

To secure Socialist support, Lecornu agreed to delay President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial 2023 pension reform until after the 2027 election. While the move ensured funding for healthcare, pensions and welfare, it triggered backlash from centrist and conservative allies who say the concessions are too costly and could push the country towards greater financial strain. The approved plan still leaves France facing a social security deficit near €20 billion, a system that represents more than 40% of public spending.

Despite the narrow win, tougher battles loom ahead as lawmakers prepare to vote on the broader state budget later this month. The government aims to cut the national deficit to below 5% of GDP, but with growing political hostility and no clear majority, another crisis remains likely. Recent budget disputes have already toppled multiple governments since Macron’s election setback last year.

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