France Suspends 2023 Pension Reform as Parliament Approves Revised 2026 Social Security Budget

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on October 14 the suspension of the controversial 2023 pension reform, a move that confirmed the government’s decision to maintain the retirement age at 62 years and 9 months until January 2028. This suspension comes amid intensive parliamentary debates on the social security financing bill for 2026 (PLFSS 2026), which was submitted to the National Assembly with several pension-related provisions.

On December 9, the National Assembly adopted the revised PLFSS 2026 with a narrow majority of 247 votes in favor, 234 against, and 93 abstentions. Key amendments included removing the previously proposed freeze on pensions and social contribution rates, thereby protecting pensioners’ incomes. New rules were introduced to revise pension calculations for women and adjustments made for individuals with long working careers. Measures also addressed the public sector, particularly civil servants, and adjusted social contribution rates for retirees.

The Senate is scheduled to vote on the bill on December 12, signaling ongoing legislative engagement with pension policy reforms. Despite the suspension of major reform, the government is advancing incremental changes aimed at revalorization of pensions between 2026 and 2030.

After successfully navigating the social security budget vote, Prime Minister Lecornu is now preparing for the more challenging state budget vote, engaging in negotiations with socialist party members to build support. This development highlights the political balancing act surrounding France's fiscal sustainability and social welfare reforms.

These steps underscore the government’s cautious approach to pension reform ahead of the presidential elections, combining suspension of contentious measures with incremental policy adjustments to ensure fiscal responsibility and social protection.