New French Prime Minister Michel Barnier pledges to address public ‘frustration’

President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Michel Barnier, a veteran conservative and Brexit negotiator, as the new Prime Minister of France. In his first speech, Barnier promised to address the anger and resentment felt by French voters, focusing on challenges such as abandonment and injustice. At 73, he is the oldest prime minister of modern France’s Fifth Republic and replaces Gabriel Attal, who was 34 when appointed just eight months ago. Despite this change, the country’s political turmoil continues, with a divided National Assembly consisting of left-wing, centrist, and far-right factions. Barnier’s appointment ends over 50 days of a caretaker government but offers no guarantee of political calm. He must now face a confidence vote in the National Assembly and work with a hung parliament resulting from an early legislative election called by Macron in June. Experts believe that choosing Barnier may strengthen the far-right National Rally and elevate it to a kingmaker status, while the importance of the left should not be overlooked. Barnier’s immediate tasks include submitting proposals to slash public spending to the EU by September 20 and presenting a draft of the country’s 2025 budget to Parliament by October 1. Amid the country’s challenging economic situation, Barnier’s appointment heralds a new chapter in French politics that will require navigating through deep divisions and building consensus.

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