Critics Slam 2026 Budget as a Blow to Youth, Urge Political Unity for Children’s Future

The 2026 French budget has drawn sharp criticism for its adverse impact on youth and children’s future, prompting calls from political and civic actors for urgent reforms and political unity. Christelle Morançais, head of the Pays de la Loire region and former entrepreneur, condemned the new taxes in the budget as catastrophic and a "middle finger to youth." She aligned with over 1,000 business leaders alarmed by rising tax burdens and anti-competitive policies that hinder economic growth and employment. Morançais highlighted France’s tax level as significantly above the OECD average, with the suspension of pension reform especially worrying as it signals neglect of future generations’ financial security. She argued that France’s deficit and debt levels are unsustainable and criticized the current political climate for its hostility towards business leaders. Morançais also suggested President Macron consider resigning to allow for political renewal ahead of next year’s presidential election.

Meanwhile, the Citizen Convention on children’s times, which will finalize its report on November 23, stressed the urgent need to overcome political divisions for children’s benefit. Comprising 133 members, the convention expressed concerns over the “unacceptable” societal disregard for children’s needs. Their manifesto urges political leaders to take responsibility and demonstrate that politics can serve the common good, emphasizing that their findings should be seen holistically rather than as isolated issues. Although not all childhood-related topics could be addressed, they called for concrete actions to improve children’s lives.

Together, these perspectives underline deep societal and political concerns about the 2026 budget’s failure to protect youth interests and highlight a broader call for responsible governance that transcends partisan divides. Morançais’ critique and the convention’s manifesto converge on the need for sustainable economic policies and political courage to secure a better future for France’s younger generations.