French Senate Takes Charge of Contentious Social Security Budget

The Senate begins deliberations on a controversial budget proposal after the National Assembly's failure to reach consensus.

• The French government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, faces challenges in passing the Social Security budget, with key issues like employer charge reductions causing division.
• The Senate, dominated by Republicans and centrists, is expected to support the government more than the fragmented National Assembly did.
• Debates will focus on proposed changes to employer charge exemptions, with a compromise suggesting a reduction to three billion euros in savings.
• A new 'contribution of solidarity' proposes seven unpaid work hours annually per employee to fund elderly care, a measure likely to be contentious.
• The Senate plans to increase taxes on sugary drinks, tobacco, and online gambling to boost revenue, reflecting a focus on fiscal responsibility.

31 Articles

Sud Ouest Le Point Le Nouvel Obs L'Humanité Sud Ouest Le Parisien Le Figaro La Croix L'Express l'Opinion L'Humanité Le Point Le Figaro Le Figaro Le Journal du Dimanche Le Nouvel Obs Sud Ouest Le Figaro Libération Ouest-France Sud Ouest Le Figaro l'Opinion Le Nouvel Obs Le Parisien Le Point Le Point Le Figaro Sud Ouest Le Parisien Le Parisien