French PM Lecornu Suspends Macron’s Pension Reform Until 2027 | Latest France Political News – 14 Oct 2025

French Prime Minister Suspends Macron’s Flagship Pension Reform Until 2027 Elections

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced the suspension of President Emmanuel Macron’s flagship pension reform, a move aimed at preventing a possible vote of no confidence and ensuring stability within France’s fragile parliament.

Lecornu told lawmakers that the reform plan will be postponed until after the 2027 presidential elections, confirming that no increase in the retirement age will occur until at least January 2028. He stated that the decision was taken to preserve political balance and build consensus around France’s 2026 budget, which requires support from opposition parties.

Macron’s controversial pension reform, first implemented in 2023, sought to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, provided that workers had contributed for at least 43 years. The measure triggered months of nationwide protests and strikes, becoming one of the most divisive political issues in Macron’s presidency.

By delaying the reform, Lecornu aims to ease tensions both in Parliament and on the streets. Left-wing parties have welcomed the suspension as a “step in the right direction”, though they warned that they may still propose a no-confidence motion if the government fails to renegotiate the reform’s structure. Meanwhile, right-wing and far-right parties have criticized the move as a political maneuver meant to “buy time” and protect the centrist government.

Lecornu revealed that delaying the reform will cost the French state €400 million in 2026 and €1.8 billion in 2027, adding that the losses would be offset through “alternative fiscal measures” without invoking emergency constitutional powers for budget approval.

Analysts describe the suspension as a political compromise, not merely a financial adjustment. Macron’s government, already under pressure from social unrest and declining approval ratings, is trying to maintain credibility while avoiding economic instability.

Several trade unions and left-leaning organizations have hailed the suspension as a victory for public pressure, saying it proves that “citizens’ voices still matter.” However, many remain cautious, calling for a complete rollback of the reform rather than just a delay. Right-wing groups, on the other hand, accused Lecornu of “weakness” and warned that the suspension could worsen France’s long-term fiscal challenges.

As France faces political polarization, rising living costs, and voter frustration, Lecornu’s announcement marks a delicate balancing act — an attempt to restore calm without abandoning Macron’s long-term economic vision. Observers believe the move could redefine France’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 presidential race, shaping both Macron’s legacy and the future of his centrist coalition.