French Government Announces Generalization of 1 Euro University Meals to Secure 2026 Budget Compromise

On January 16, 2026, France's government, represented by Minister Sébastien Lecornu, pledged to generalize university meals priced at one euro as part of efforts to reach a budget agreement with the Socialist Party (PS). This move aims to address increasing student precarity while securing political compromise to avoid a censure vote that could derail the 2026 budget adoption.

Earlier in the year, the Socialist Party, led by Olivier Faure, successfully passed a parliamentary proposal for 1 euro university meals with an overwhelming vote of 149 in favor and 5 against. The measure aligns with socialist calls for policies that support youth. Fatiha Keloua Hachi, president of the Cultural Affairs Commission from the PS, estimated the initiative's annual cost at 90 million euros.

The government had suspended budget discussions in the National Assembly to prevent an immediate censure vote, acknowledging political deadlock. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne is expected to present additional proposals to facilitate dialogue. Meanwhile, Minister Amélie de Montchalin criticized extreme parties La France Insoumise and Rassemblement National for obstructing the budget process through contrary amendments, leading to frustration among deputies fatigued by repeated budget debates.

Lecornu's commitment to including the 1 euro meal initiative in the final budget reflects a conciliatory gesture to secure socialist support and advance the legislative process amid ongoing political tensions.