In his office at Matignon on April 4, 2024, Gabriel Attal is working to set things right. The Prime Minister’s office windows are open as he meets with Le Monde, but a storm is brewing both literally and figuratively. The announced reform of the unemployment insurance system has been met with criticism from all sides, with the left-wing opposition accusing the government of making savings “on the backs of the unemployed.” Even within the presidential camp, voices such as Assembly President Yaël Braun-Pivet and former Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne have expressed concerns that the reform contradicts the counter-cyclical spirit of the 2023 reform, as it could reduce the duration of benefits at a time when unemployment is increasing. The debate is escalating, with even President Emmanuel Macron expressing apprehension during a recent cabinet meeting, urging for a clearer narrative of the government’s actions.
Gabriel Attal is quick to respond, stating that the reform is not about saving money, but rather about promoting activity and prosperity. Timing-wise, the unveiling of the project alongside news of a budget deficit of 5.5% of GDP was purely coincidental, as the initiative was part of the measures promised by the Prime Minister in his general policy statement in January. Despite the backlash, Attal stands by the reform, asserting that he was appointed to act and that there will be a reform of the unemployment insurance system in 2024. He claims to have the support of a majority of lawmakers within his camp, having met with over 150 members of the presidential coalition since taking office, as well as gaining the assurance of support from around thirty right-leaning lawmakers.
The ultimate goal of the reform, according to Attal, is to achieve full employment, a key objective of Macron’s presidency. He points to the significant drop in unemployment from 9.6% to 7.5% since 2017 as evidence of the impact of their reforms, including those related to unemployment insurance. In response to Elisabeth Borne’s praise of a previous counter-cyclical reform, Attal emphasizes the importance of evolving parameters while remaining within the same logical framework. Moreover, he highlights the Banque de France’s prediction of a strong economic rebound in 2025, when the reform will come into full effect.
Attal emphasizes the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of the French people through their reforms. He acknowledges the challenges and criticisms they face but remains steadfast in his belief that the reforms are necessary for the country’s economic well-being. Despite the opposition and internal dissent within the presidential camp, Attal is confident in the support he has garnered from lawmakers and is determined to see the reform through to its implementation in the hopes of achieving a stronger and more prosperous future for France.
