Could Cutting National Holidays Be France's Key to Financial Recovery?

Fri Feb 13 2026 02:05:03 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Prime Minister François Bayrou's controversial proposal to eliminate two public holidays sparks debate over balancing tradition and economic necessity amidst escalating national debt.

As France grapples with its burgeoning debt, Prime Minister François Bayrou suggests eliminating Easter Monday and May 8 holidays to boost productivity. His proposal, however, faces vocal opposition from various political factions and raises questions about work-life balance and national identity.

Amidst France's mounting financial debt, Prime Minister François Bayrou has stirred controversy by proposing the elimination of two public holidays: Easter Monday and May 8. This suggestion comes as part of an effort to bolster productivity and address the nation’s increasing fiscal challenges, but it has met with fierce backlash from leftist factions and populists, while garnering mixed support from centrists and conservatives.

The French populace holds a deep-rooted attachment to their national holidays, which number 11 each year—an average tally compared to other European nations. The month of May, in particular, is highly anticipated, offering a series of long weekends thanks to holidays falling strategically on Thursdays and Tuesdays. The thought of losing two cherished days off has led to significant public outcry, as many see it as an infringement on their work-life balance.

Despite the popular perception of the French as leisurely, the country actually has fewer public holidays than nations like Slovakia, which boasts 15. Additionally, productivity in France is notably higher, with output per worker exceeding that of the UK by 18%.

Historically, France has attempted to modify its holiday structure. Under President Jacques Chirac during the 2003 heatwave tragedy, the government converted Whit Monday into a voluntary "Day of Solidarity," which generated substantial funds for the elderly and disabled, despite initial protests. Furthermore, in the late 1950s, Charles de Gaulle eliminated the May 8 holiday, citing financial conditions; this decision was reversed by subsequent administrations.

While Bayrou’s approach has led to a wide-reaching discussion about the implications of sacrificing national holidays for financial health, achieving consensus amidst the fractured political landscape remains a daunting task. His lack of majority support in parliament complicates prospects for pushing through the proposed changes. Bayrou has candidly acknowledged France’s dire economic state, with debt currently surpassing €3.3 trillion, urging a reevaluation of work and lifestyle choices in such pressing times.