French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou last week called for parliament to hold an earlier-than-expected vote of confidence in him. Next week’s ballot could lead to the collapse of his centrist government and prompt a period of further instability in the European Union’s second biggest economy.
Breakdown
- Prime Minister François Bayrou has called a surprise confidence vote after failing to secure support for his austerity budget. 12s
- The proposed budget aims to address over-indebtedness but faces criticism for targeting the middle and working classes. 36s
- Opposition parties and trade unions are mobilizing against the budget, with protests and potential nationwide strikes planned. 1m 14s
- Analysts warn that if Bayrou is ousted, President Emmanuel Macron could face mounting pressure and calls to resign. 1m 42s
- France is experiencing heightened political instability with no clear resolution in sight. 2m 3s