In an effort to tackle France’s growing fiscal crisis, Prime Minister François Bayrou has proposed a controversial plan to cut two public holidays from the national calendar. The proposal is part of a broader strategy to reduce the budget deficit, which stood at 5.8% of GDP in 2024—almost twice the EU’s recommended limit.
Targeting May Holidays: A Bid to Boost Productivity
The proposed cuts are likely to affect two major spring holidays: Easter Monday and Victory in Europe Day (8 May). May is traditionally a month of extended weekends in France, often referred to as “les ponts” (bridges), where single-day holidays are combined with weekends to create longer breaks. These popular holidays are now being viewed by the government as productivity bottlenecks.
“There are simply too many public holidays in May,” Bayrou stated during a press conference. “We need to get France back to work.” He argues that reducing holidays could increase productivity and generate billions of euros in additional economic output.
Public Spending Freeze and Tax Bracket Freeze
In addition to holiday cuts, Bayrou’s fiscal package includes a freeze on most public spending, including welfare payments and tax brackets—which will not be adjusted for inflation in 2026. The only exception is defense spending, which is set to increase. These measures, the government claims, are necessary to gradually bring the deficit down to 4.6% by 2026, and eventually to the EU’s 3% target by 2029.
Bayrou emphasized the urgency of the reforms, warning that France’s high debt levels—now requiring over €60 billion annually in repayments—pose a serious threat to the nation’s financial stability.
Widespread Opposition and Political Risks
The proposals have sparked widespread backlash from across the political spectrum and the general public. Right-wing leader Marine Le Pen criticized the move, accusing the government of “targeting workers and pensioners instead of cutting government waste.” Socialist Party head Olivier Faure condemned the plan as “a demolition job on the French social model.”
Trade unions and workers have also expressed discontent, arguing that ordinary citizens are being asked to shoulder the burden of years of government mismanagement. A Parisian schoolteacher summed up the public sentiment: “We work hard all year—now they want to take away our well-earned rest?”
The political risks for Bayrou are significant. His predecessor was ousted by a no-confidence vote over the budget last December, and similar resistance is expected when the plan reaches Parliament in October.
A Familiar Challenge for Macron’s Government
President Emmanuel Macron, although less prominent in this latest development, has faced repeated challenges in managing France’s fiscal policies. His previous attempts to reform pensions and public finances triggered political crises and mass protests, leaving Parliament deeply fragmented.
Outlook: A Critical Test for France’s Future
The debate over cutting public holidays reflects a broader dilemma facing France: how to balance economic reform with social protections. With financial markets closely monitoring France’s fiscal direction and credit agencies signaling caution, the outcome of Bayrou’s plan could have far-reaching consequences.
While the final decision will be made in Parliament later this year, the discussion has already reignited tensions around work-life balance, labor rights, and government accountability. Whether the proposed holiday cuts will proceed remains uncertain, but the conversation about France’s economic future is well underway.
For now, French workers may want to enjoy their long weekends—while they still can.
