French government overthrown as 331 deputies back historic no-confidence vote

December 4, 2024 - A no-confidence motion against the government of Michel Barnier has successfully passed in the French National Assembly, with 331 deputies voting in favor, exceeding the required majority. As a result, Barnier’s government has been overthrown, and the proposed bill for the 2025 social security funding has been rejected.

This is the first time since 1962 that a French government has been ousted through a no-confidence motion, marking a significant political development. The vote, put forward by the New Popular Front, represents a major blow to President Emmanuel Macron’s administration.

The outcome is expected to have far-reaching political consequences, with Macron now facing the challenge of rebuilding his leadership following this unprecedented setback.