At the end of Anne Hidalgo's two terms as outgoing mayor of Paris, the city's debt will reach a record 9.7 billion euros by the end of 2026, up 133% from 2014. This rise fuels electoral debates, with the opposition decrying poor management while the municipality highlights a sustained investment policy.
Paris's debt has seen a dramatic rise during Anne Hidalgo's two terms, from 4.18 billion euros on December 31, 2014, to a projected 9.7 billion by December 31, 2026, according to city figures. This marks a 133% increase over twelve years.
Though this issue stirs electoral debates more than it concerns everyday Parisians, it lies at the heart of public policies: finances, particularly borrowing. The opposition, led by Rachida Dati, the Republicans' candidate in the municipal elections, accuses the outgoing mayor of flawed financial management, even suggesting the city is on the brink of bankruptcy. She cites a July 2025 report from the Île-de-France regional audit chamber (CRC) to claim 12 billion euros, including a 'hidden debt' from 'capitalized rents'.
The municipality, however, advocates a bold approach: despite economic crises and the state's growing withdrawal from local finances, it has sustained major investments without slowdowns. For the end of 2025, the city forecasts 9.3 billion euros. This debate over numbers and interpretations highlights political divides ahead of the elections.
