French Prime Minister François Bayrou announced on May 3, 2025, that he is seriously considering calling a national referendum on proposed budget reforms, citing rising political pressure and growing fears of public unrest. Speaking to Journal du Dimanche, Bayrou said, “This is a grave issue that concerns the entire country. Citizens should have the right to express themselves on it directly.”
The proposal for a referendum comes amid escalating backlash to Finance Minister Aurélien Rousseau’s recent announcement of deep spending cuts. These cuts, aimed at reducing the national deficit, have triggered outrage from opposition lawmakers and sparked protests from labor unions and civil society groups. The government’s budget plan includes billions in savings, which opponents argue would undermine public services and disproportionately hurt low-income families.
The French Constitution allows for a referendum on important national issues if the Prime Minister proposes it and the President consents. While the Élysée Palace has not publicly responded, President Emmanuel Macron had previously indicated in his New Year’s Eve address that he was open to the use of referendums for significant policy questions.
Bayrou’s move is widely seen as a strategic attempt to defuse a looming no-confidence motion threatened by opposition parties. His government, already fragile after a narrow survival last session, faces mounting pressure to either soften the austerity measures or face collapse—echoing the fate of former Prime Minister Michel Barnier, who was forced out in 2023 amid massive protests over pension reform.
Analysts say Bayrou is trying to avoid a repeat of that outcome by turning to direct democracy. “A referendum could shift responsibility to the public and provide legitimacy to the government’s course,” said political scientist Hélène Montfort.
Still, critics warn that taking the issue to a vote could backfire. Jean-Luc Mélenchon of France Unbowed called the idea “a desperate stunt,” and Marine Le Pen said it shows that “this government has no real mandate and is afraid of parliament.”
Bayrou has not specified a date for the proposed referendum or the exact question that would be put to voters. However, insiders say discussions are already underway between the Prime Minister’s office and the Élysée.
The situation remains fluid, with both political outcomes and public reaction likely to shape the next phase of Macron’s presidency.
Source: Reuters
