Political Storm in France: Will Macron Resign to Solve the Crisis?

France is experiencing an unprecedented political crisis after Barnier’s government lost the confidence of Parliament, just days after being appointed by President Emmanuel Macron. The crisis erupted due to a Parliament dominated by two opposing forces: the left and the far right, leaving the Republican government in a minority position.
The Parliamentary Crisis and the Vote of No Confidence
President Macron made a strategic mistake by dissolving Parliament in an attempt to counter the rise of the far right, represented by the National Rally, during the French European and legislative elections. However, the results backfired, leading to a no-confidence vote against the government.
This impasse has plunged France, for the first time since the establishment of the Fifth Republic, into a critical situation requiring either the president’s resignation, a referendum on his dismissal, or the transition to a Sixth Republic, as proposed by leftist leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon.
Multi-Dimensional Challenges
President Macron appears to be nearing the end of his political road. Key crises during his term include:

• The loss of French influence in Africa.
• Failure to manage the Ukraine war, which former U.S. President Donald Trump promised to resolve through an agreement with Vladimir Putin, disregarding prior arrangements.
• France’s public debt crisis, which has reached €1 trillion.
• Economic stagnation and rising prices, making daily life difficult and pushing French citizens toward the far right, as seen in Italy.

Inconsistent Policies and Complex Calculations

Macron’s decision to appoint a leftist government led by Barnier, despite being a Republican, was seen as a challenge to democratic norms. It also raised concerns about corruption scandals frequently mentioned by the right. Parliament’s refusal to grant confidence to this government was a severe blow to Macron, who should have resigned to resolve the crisis.
Lack of Options and Early Elections
France now faces the risk of entering 2025 without an approved budget, which would paralyze administrative and economic institutions. Appointing a leftist government would result in conflicts between the presidency and the government, deepening the stalemate and forcing early elections.
Analysts believe former President François Hollande is the most likely to win such elections, as he is free from “Macronian” burdens and could restore political balance.
Social and Political Dimensions
The real struggle in France transcends political crises. It involves a confrontation between multinational corporations and capitalist excesses that have weakened workers and farmers, the backbone of the electorate. These groups now oscillate between the far right and the left, having lost trust in the Republicans.
Additionally, Macron’s positions on the Gaza war have caused a collapse in republican values, giving the left a renewed presence.
Future Outlook
France is in a state of political confusion and economic decline, worsened by aggressive U.S. policies in their rivalry with China. French diplomat Dominique de Villepin believes the solution lies in a “European awakening” to rebuild an independent policy from the U.S.
Until President Macron resigns or finds a radical solution to the crisis, France will remain in a political deadlock. The coming days may bring significant developments, reshuffling the political landscape in France.