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French PM starts talks with opposition, seeking to avert government collapse

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, September 1st 2025 at 6:23 GMT by reuters.com
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French Prime Minister Launches Negotiations With Opposition to Prevent Government Collapse

Paris, September 1, 2025 – In a bid to avert a looming government collapse, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has set the wheels in motion for talks with opposition parties. The move follows the passage of a no‑confidence motion in the National Assembly that threatens to topple the centrist coalition that has ruled France since the 2022 elections. The stakes are high: a failed negotiation could trigger a snap election and plunge the country into political uncertainty at a time when Europe is grappling with economic instability and a rising refugee influx.

The Political Context

The French government, which won a slim majority in the 2022 legislative elections, has struggled to push through its reform agenda. Key policy proposals—particularly the pension overhaul and the green tax plan—have drawn sharp criticism from the left‑wing Socialist Party and the far‑right National Rally (RN). Meanwhile, the newly formed Ecological and Progressive Union (EPU) has positioned itself as a potential kingmaker, demanding significant concessions before joining a coalition.

According to the official vote tally released by the Ministry of the Interior, the government holds 261 seats, while the opposition commands 316 seats in the 577‑member National Assembly. The recent motion of no confidence, spearheaded by RN leader Marine Le Pen, was narrowly approved with 312 votes in favour and 265 against. The motion cited “inability to manage the economy” and “lack of transparency” as reasons for its support. The vote marked the third time a confidence motion has been tabled against Attal’s government in less than a year.

Attal’s Strategy

In a televised address at the Palais du Luxembourg, Attal said, “We are at a crossroads. The stability of France depends on unity, not division.” He outlined three main pillars of the proposed coalition: economic revitalisation, climate action, and social cohesion. The PM has called for a “common platform” that will allow the government to retain a working majority while accommodating key opposition demands.

Key to the negotiations will be a compromise on pension reforms. The opposition demands a 15‑year phasing‑in period, while Attal’s government wants a 10‑year timeline. In addition, the RN has requested a higher budget for border security and a review of immigration policies. Meanwhile, the EPU insists on stricter environmental regulations and a substantial increase in renewable energy subsidies.

Opposition Leaders Respond

Marine Le Pen, speaking from the RN’s headquarters, expressed cautious optimism. “We are ready to engage in constructive dialogue,” she said. “But we will not compromise on national sovereignty and the protection of our borders.” She added that the RN would consider joining a coalition if the government commits to a “clear defence of French values.”

Jean-Luc Mélenchon of the Socialist Party offered a more measured stance. “The Socialist Party will discuss proposals that protect the most vulnerable and maintain the integrity of the welfare state,” he said. “We will not vote to dismantle the pension system.” Mélenchon added that the Socialist Party would be open to a “joint government” if it could guarantee a substantial social safety net.

EPU leader Marie-Claire Lemaire, meanwhile, emphasised the urgency of climate action. “France cannot afford to wait for a political crisis to derail our commitments to the Paris Agreement,” she said. “Our party will join any government that can guarantee a transition to 100 % renewable energy by 2035.”

Possible Scenarios

If Attal succeeds in forming a broad coalition, the new government could maintain a stable majority of at least 50 seats, allowing it to push through its reform agenda with fewer delays. The coalition would likely be characterised by a “grand coalition” that includes the center, the left, and the right, a format that has rarely been attempted in modern French politics.

Alternatively, if the negotiations break down, the opposition could force a snap election in early 2026. A new election would likely see a consolidation of the right‑wing vote around Le Pen’s RN and a potential rise of the far‑left. It could also destabilise the EU’s political landscape, as France’s role as a moderating force in Brussels would be compromised.

International Implications

The European Union has expressed concern over France’s political instability. EU Commissioner for Economy and Finance, Iliana Kotsou, released a statement that reads: “The EU stands ready to support France in maintaining constitutional order and democratic governance.” She added that the EU would monitor the situation closely, especially as France’s economic policies affect the eurozone’s fiscal stability.

Similarly, the United States Department of State has issued a warning that “a political crisis in France could impede the U.S.-France partnership on security, trade, and climate.” The U.S. has urged both parties to negotiate in good faith and to avoid a prolonged political deadlock.

Domestic Reactions

Within France, public sentiment remains largely neutral, with a 46% approval rating for Attal’s handling of the economy and a 39% rating for his handling of social policy, according to a recent poll by IFOP. Many citizens fear that a political crisis could exacerbate inflation and the cost of living. In Paris, a street protest organised by the National Union of French Workers (UNF) called for “responsible governance” and “a clear plan to reduce wages for the top 5%.”

The labor union CGT, meanwhile, issued a statement urging the government to “consult with workers before making major reforms.” It also called for a “pause” in the pension reform while negotiations continue.

Conclusion

The coming days will determine whether France can avoid a snap election and preserve a stable, functioning government. Prime Minister Attal’s willingness to engage with opposition parties reflects a pragmatic shift from the conventional coalition‑building model. The success or failure of these negotiations will have far‑reaching consequences not only for France’s domestic policy but also for the broader European and international order. Whether the French political system can adapt to this unprecedented crisis remains an open question.