How much does France's debt cost? How do deficits arise? 13 graphs to understand France's public finance crisis
France is facing a significant public finance crisis with national debt reaching 119% of GDP, the highest level since 1945. The government is currently preparing a 2027 budget bill amidst intense political pressure to address the mounting deficit.
Why it matters
The fiscal stability of the Eurozone's second-largest economy is critical for global market stability and European economic policy.
Is France teetering on the edge of a financial precipice? A lackluster economic outlook, soaring interest rates , ballooning budget deficits and mounting public debt: As the new political season starts, the discourse has been dominated by warnings about the state of public finances . As Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's government is presenting its draft budget bill for 2027, on Thursday, October 1, all presidential election candidates are being forced to take a stance on this urgent and divisive issue.
Should we tackle the debt crisis without delay? What are the roots of the crisis, and how can it be resolved? Below, Le Monde provides you with all the figures and explanations you need to understand France's public finance crisis.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in