Michel Barnier Faces Daunting Challenges as New French Prime Minister

Michel Barnier, appointed as France's Prime Minister by President Emmanuel Macron, faces immediate challenges. He must form a government acceptable to multiple parties and seek a vote of confidence. His major task will be drafting the 2025 budget under tight deadlines and mitigating a significant budget deficit.

Michel Barnier, the newly appointed French Prime Minister by President Emmanuel Macron, is already facing significant challenges as he takes office. His first task is to form a government, a process that requires careful consideration due to Macron's lacking parliamentary majority.

Subsequently, Barnier will need to deliver a speech to the National Assembly outlining his policy priorities and seek a vote of confidence. Much of Barnier's political survival hinges on various opposition parties, particularly the far-right National Rally's stance on key issues like immigration.

Another major hurdle for Barnier is drafting the 2025 budget legislation by the October 1 deadline. With the national budget currently running a significant deficit, Barnier will face tough decisions on spending cuts and tax increases. The budget's passage through parliament will be fraught with obstacles, including potential calls for wide-ranging tax hikes and votes of confidence from dissatisfied parties.

(With inputs from agencies.)