French Government Falls in Historic No-Confidence Vote

In an unprecedented political event, France’s government under Prime Minister Michel Barnier collapsed following a successful no-confidence vote in the National Assembly. This marks the first time since 1962 that a French government has been toppled by such a motion, highlighting deep divisions over economic policies and governance style. The vote was initiated after Barnier attempted to force through a social security budget bill without parliamentary approval, igniting fierce opposition from both the left-wing New Popular Front and Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally. The outcome has plunged France into further political uncertainty, with President Emmanuel Macron now faced with the challenge of forming a new government or potentially reshuffling his cabinet to navigate the country’s fiscal challenges amidst this crisis.