Protests erupt in Paris over Macron’s defence-heavy budget proposal; ‘warmongering at expense of…’

Hundreds of protesters from three major French trade unions marched through central Paris, voicing strong opposition to President Emmanuel Macron’s proposed 2026 budget. Demonstrators accused the government of redirecting essential public funds away from healthcare, education, and welfare to boost defence spending in line with EU and NATO targets. Teachers joined the rally, warning of worsening conditions in schools as the education system comes under increasing strain. The demonstrations come as the National Assembly prepares for a crucial second reading of the 2026 social security budget, placing Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu under intense pressure to negotiate a political compromise. The protests unfold against the backdrop of Macron’s accelerated defence expansion plan, which aims to double France’s military budget by 2027 amid rising global tensions and ongoing support for Ukraine. Macron’s stance—including hinting at the possible deployment of Western troops—has ignited intense debate both domestically and among allies.