Michel Barnier, New French PM, to Uphold Macron’s Policies and Strengthen Immigration Rules

Conservative Michel Barnier to champion some Macron’s policies amidst fragmented parliament.

New French Prime Minister Michel Barnier pledges to uphold some of President Emmanuel Macron’s policies, whilst implementing more stringent immigration practices.

On Friday, Barnier announced he would assemble a government including conservatives and Macron supporters, to manage the hung parliament where his party lacks substantial majority.

He emphasized inclusivity, stating, “There is no red line,” and expressed intention to collaborate with other groups, including the left.

After a two-month-long search, Macron appointed 73-year-old Barnier, a conservative and EU’s ex-Brexit negotiator, as prime minister.

Barnier has the formidable challenge of introducing reforms, managing the 2025 budget and reducing the deficit, under pressure from the European Commission and bond markets.

Despite controversies, Barnier showed readiness to uphold some of Macron’s unpopular reform policies and maintained the rise of the retirement age to 64.

Further, he signaled the willingness to modify policies for better protection of ‘the most vulnerable’ even as the left-wing New Popular Front and far-right National Rally oppose the reform.

‘Our borders are sieves’

Barnier stated his intent to enforce stricter immigration policies, acknowledging public sentiment that immigration control was lacking. He clarified, “I don’t have much in common with the ideologies of the National Rally, but I respect it.”

Macron’s political opponents claimed that Barnier’s nomination, supported by the far right, is indicative of undue influence over the president. The RN expressed qualified support to Barnier, stating its reservations regarding immigration, security and financial issues.