Olivier Faure Reports Progress but No Compromise Yet on 2026 Social Security Budget

On December 1, 2025, Olivier Faure, first secretary of the Socialist Party (PS), confirmed that negotiations with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu over the 2026 social security budget (PLFSS) are advancing, but no agreement has been reached yet. Faure highlighted that discussions aim to protect purchasing power and public services, with socialists opposing cuts to social benefits and pensions as well as proposed doubling of medical franchises.

The Senate has already rejected key socialist proposals including suspending pension reform and increasing the CSG tax on capital income, making the budget approval challenging. The budget commission has also voted against the bill, with Republicans opposing and PS abstaining. Lecornu is currently consulting a broad spectrum of parties including the French Communist Party, Ecologists, National Rally, and others to gain backing.

While Article 49.3 of the Constitution—which allows passage of legislation without a parliamentary vote—was not discussed in the recent meeting, this procedure is increasingly viewed as a possible option to ensure the budget passes amid mounting opposition. A vote on the revenue part of the budget is expected within the week, with a full vote scheduled for December 9.

Faure emphasized the need for "common responsibility" across political groups for the budget’s success and acknowledged ongoing tensions as the government seeks to implement reforms met with resistance from opposition parties.