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France appoints new government under PM Lecornu

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, October 12th 2025 at 18:46 GMT by Le Monde.fr

France Appoints New Government Under Prime Minister Le Cornu

On 12 October 2025, France inaugurated a new government led by Prime Minister Le Cornu in a ceremony that marked a pivotal shift in the nation’s political trajectory. The new cabinet, sworn in at the Élysée Palace, reflects a carefully balanced coalition that seeks to address a range of domestic challenges while reinforcing France’s role on the international stage.

Who Is Le Cornu?

Le Cornu, the President’s first choice after the resignation of the previous prime minister, is a seasoned political figure with a background in both public administration and the private sector. A member of the centrist Liberal Democratic Alliance (LDA), he previously served as Minister of Economic Affairs and was widely praised for his data‑driven approach to fiscal policy. His appointment is seen as an attempt to bridge the divide between the center‑right and the moderate left, a strategic move to secure parliamentary support for his reform agenda.

Composition of the New Cabinet

The cabinet comprises 22 ministers, including representatives from the LDA, the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and a smaller number of technocrats. Notably, the ministry of the Interior has been assigned to a former civil servant with extensive experience in cybersecurity, underscoring the government’s focus on digital resilience. The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Action, a key portfolio for the coalition, is headed by an environmental scientist with a track record of implementing green infrastructure projects.

The new lineup is intended to provide a balanced mix of expertise and political weight. Several ministers have previously served in the cabinet of the former prime minister, suggesting continuity in certain policy areas, while others bring fresh perspectives—particularly in the realms of technology, social welfare, and foreign affairs.

Key Policy Priorities

1. Economic Revitalization

Le Cornu’s administration pledges to launch a “Growth and Jobs” initiative that combines tax incentives for small and medium enterprises with a revised framework for public investment in high‑growth sectors such as AI, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. The government intends to revise the corporate tax rate, making it more competitive with neighboring EU states while maintaining a progressive structure for large corporations.

2. Pension and Labor Reform

A long‑standing issue, pension reform has been a centerpiece of the political debate. The new cabinet proposes a gradual increase in the retirement age coupled with a phased reduction in pension benefits for higher earners, aiming to achieve a more sustainable pension system without drastic cuts. Labor reforms will include flexible work arrangements, increased support for vocational training, and a revised framework for collective bargaining.

3. Climate Action

France’s commitment to the Paris Agreement has intensified under the new government. The environmental ministry plans to accelerate the deployment of carbon‑neutral infrastructure projects, expand electric vehicle charging networks, and promote circular economy practices across industry. The administration also intends to strengthen France’s participation in the European Green Deal, advocating for increased EU funding directed toward climate‑friendly projects in both France and its neighboring regions.

4. Digital Transformation

Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure are central to the new government's agenda. The interior minister announced a national cyber‑security strategy that will establish a multi‑layered defense system for critical infrastructure, alongside the creation of a national digital literacy program aimed at bridging the skills gap for younger workers.

International Relations

Under Le Cornu, France signals a renewed commitment to multilateralism and deeper integration within the European Union. The foreign affairs minister has pledged to reinforce France’s diplomatic engagement on issues such as defense cooperation, migration, and global trade. A notable development is the upcoming meeting with European leaders in Brussels, where France is expected to play a leading role in shaping the EU’s security policy post‑Ukraine war.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the coalition’s broad appeal, the new government faces significant hurdles. The pension reform debate has drawn opposition from left‑leaning parties, and there is growing concern about the potential impact of labor reforms on worker rights. Moreover, the global economic environment remains volatile, with supply chain disruptions and fluctuating commodity prices posing risks to France’s export‑heavy economy.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Prime Minister Le Cornu and his cabinet marks a new chapter for France. With a balanced coalition and a clear policy roadmap that addresses economic revival, social equity, environmental sustainability, and digital resilience, the government seeks to navigate both domestic and international challenges. The coming months will reveal whether these ambitious plans can be translated into tangible results for France’s citizens and its standing on the world stage.