France’s 2026 State Finance Bill Focuses on Military Budget Increase Amid Narrow Parliamentary Path

On December 10, 2025, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu outlined the government's priorities for the 2026 state finance bill in a parliamentary session following the adoption of the social security budget. Addressing the National Assembly under article 50-1 of the Constitution, Lecornu presented a declaration aiming to steer debate towards a consensus despite a challenging legislative path.

Central to this budget discussion is a proposed €6.7 billion increase in the military budget for the upcoming year, a key government initiative that Lecornu urged deputies to support. The Prime Minister launched thematic parliamentary debates to foster agreement on this contentious issue, signaling the government’s intent to strongly prioritize defense spending in the next fiscal year.

The environment for passing the finance bill appears narrow and difficult, as Lecornu acknowledges the complexity in garnering widespread parliamentary backing. However, his proactive approach combining constitutional declarations and targeted discussions underscores the strategic importance the government places on state budget reforms, especially regarding defense.

While President Emmanuel Macron’s recent call to regulate social media access for youths under 15 or 16 years old, set for debate in January 2026, marks another legislative focus, the core budget fight centers on state spending, with defense at its heart. Macron’s social media proposals, inspired by Australia’s restrictions and supported by expert commissions, emphasize protecting young people but remain separate from the financial discussions Lecornu advanced.

Lecornu’s presentation frames the state budget debate as a defining political moment. The increased military expenditure reflects France’s broader strategic priorities amid international uncertainties, making the 2026 finance bill a critical item on the government’s agenda as it seeks parliamentary consensus and public support for its proposed fiscal commitments in defense.