France
Assembly adopts multinational tax against government wishes
Jean Martin Image generated by AI
During the 2026 budget review, French National Assembly deputies adopted an LFI amendment Tuesday evening to tax profits actually realized by multinationals in France, estimated at 26 billion euros by supporters. Backed by a left-RN alliance, it follows the doubling of the GAFA tax from 3% to 6%, despite strong government opposition decrying fiscal overbidding. These votes could yield over 20 billion euros for the state but may be overturned in the Senate.
French assembly debates 2026 budget amid fiscal tensions
The French National Assembly continues debates on the 2026 finance bill, slowed by numerous amendments and divisions over tax increases. A poll shows 64% of French people expect the budget's rejection, fearing government censure more than the president's resignation. Sébastien Lecornu's government sticks to not using Article 49.3, leaving it two months to secure a majority.
New Caledonia: parliament approves postponement of provincial elections
The French Parliament has approved the postponement of provincial elections in New Caledonia, originally set for November, to June 28, 2026 at the latest. This decision, passed by the National Assembly on October 28 and the Senate on October 29, represents a first step toward resuming debates on a sensitive institutional reform. It comes amid the May 2024 violence and the fragile Bougival agreement, rejected by independentists.
CNAV director warns of delays after pension reform suspension
During a Senate hearing on October 29, Renaud Villard, director general of the Caisse nationale d'assurance-vieillesse (CNAV), warned of significant delays in processing pension claims if the 2023 pension reform suspension takes effect quickly. He estimated it would take about five months for staff and the IT system to adapt to the new rules. For the first affected individuals, born in 1964, the changes appear straightforward to implement.
Dupond-Moretti accuses Philippe of disloyalty toward Macron
October 30, 2025 23:37French growth rises 0.5% in third quarter
October 30, 2025 14:58Emmanuel Macron criticizes TikTok and X on information neutrality
October 29, 2025 20:56Paris 2026 municipal elections show scattered start and possible rightward shift
October 29, 2025 19:56Ségolène Royal publishes book and eyes left primary for 2027
October 29, 2025 17:56France integrates non-consent into rape definition
October 29, 2025 17:04Senate adopts insufficient bill against high living costs in overseas territories
October 28, 2025 18:12In assembly, left and RN adopt 26 billion tax on multinationals
Adoption of 2026 budget in National Assembly increasingly uncertain
Jean Martin Image generated by AI
After several days of intense debates in the National Assembly, the 2026 finance bill increasingly resembles a 'Frankenstein' budget, a patchwork of contradictory amendments complicating its final adoption. The executive, avoiding Article 49.3, faces strong opposition on measures like the surtax on multinationals and limits on sick leave. Lawmakers from all sides have adopted or suppressed key provisions, raising the risk of overall rejection.
Deputies double GAFAM tax for 2026 budget
French National Assembly deputies voted on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, to double the GAFAM tax rate from 3% to 6%, targeting big tech companies. Despite government opposition fearing retaliation from the Trump administration, a compromise was adopted following an initial more ambitious proposal. Left-wing lawmakers denounce it as a retreat under American pressure.
Louvre burglary: two suspects indicted, jewels missing
Ten days after the spectacular burglary in the Louvre's Apollon gallery, two suspects have partially admitted the facts during their indictment for organized gang theft. The eight stolen jewels, valued at an estimated 88 million euros, remain untraceable despite an investigation involving a hundred investigators. Meanwhile, Paris's police prefect highlights infractions in the museum's surveillance cameras.
Macron announces over 1.5 billion euros in aid for Great Lakes region
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on October 30 an international aid package exceeding 1.5 billion euros for Africa's Great Lakes region during a conference in Paris. The funding aims to support vulnerable populations amid the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He also mentioned the upcoming reopening of Goma airport for humanitarian flights.
Assembly adopts RN resolution to denounce 1968 France-Algeria agreement
Jean Martin Image generated by AI
The National Assembly adopted on Thursday, by one vote, a Rassemblement National resolution to denounce the 1968 France-Algeria agreement, which provides a favorable migration regime for Algerians. For the first time, an RN text is approved by deputies, with support from the right and Horizons, despite opposition from the government and the left.
Gérald Darmanin visits Nicolas Sarkozy at La Santé prison
Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin visited former President Nicolas Sarkozy at La Santé prison on Wednesday evening, fulfilling a prior announcement. The meeting, in the presence of the prison director, lasted from 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. The visit has drawn criticism regarding judicial independence.
Hurricane Melissa could bring mild weather to France
Hurricane Melissa, downgraded to category 2, is heading toward northern Europe and could positively influence French weather next week. Although France will not be directly affected, its residual effects promise more stable and mild conditions in early November. Images of devastation persist in Jamaica and Cuba after its passage.
Paris FC and Lyon draw in spectacular 3-3 match
Paris FC and Olympique Lyonnais delivered a thrilling 3-3 draw at Stade Jean-Bouin on Wednesday evening. Trailing 3-0, Lyon saw Paris FC pull back after two red cards, eventually equalizing in the final minutes. This result keeps both teams in contention in the Ligue 1 standings.