Following months of political uncertainty in France, President Emmanuel Macron’s chief of staff, Alexis Kohler, announced the formation of the new government on Saturday.
It comes more than two months after snap runoff elections produced a hung parliament in which the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) coalition secured the most seats in the June-July elections but failed to win an outright majority.
Key Government Appointments
The 38-member Cabinet announced on Saturday includes primarily ministers from Macron’s centrist alliance and the conservative Republicans party.
- Centrist politician Jean-Noel Barrot will become the new foreign minister, known for his expertise in digital transformation and European affairs.
- Antoine Armand will serve as finance minister, entrusted with the task of balancing the budget for the upcoming 2025 fiscal year. The 33-year-old previously led parliament’s Economic Affairs Commission.
- Sebastien Lecornu will resume his role as defense minister, focusing on enhancing France’s military capabilities and managing military aid for Ukraine.
- Conservative politician Bruno Retailleau was appointed as the new minister of the interior, responsible for addressing domestic issues such as national security, immigration, and law enforcement.
France’s Shift towards Stricter Migration Policies
Seventy-three-year-old veteran politician Michel Barnier, appointed as prime minister by Macron, is renowned for leading the European Union’s Brexit negotiations with the UK.
In a clear indication of a tougher stance on immigration, Barnier emphasized in his first television interview after assuming office that he intends to dispel the perception of France having "porous borders."
Even before the new government was officially announced, protests erupted in Paris and Marseilles, with demonstrators expressing discontent over a government they believe does not align with the parliamentary election results.
In conclusion, the establishment of France’s new government under President Macron’s leadership marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape. With key appointments in crucial ministries and a shift towards stricter migration policies, the government aims to address pressing issues and deliver on its promises to the French people. This development not only impacts France’s domestic affairs but also has broader implications for European politics and international relations. Stay tuned for further updates on how these changes will shape the future of France and beyond.
