Historian and university lecturer France Niek Pas of the University of Amsterdam is not at all surprised by Macron’s move, although he thinks it was exciting until the last moment. “But after intensive consultation, it was decided to use this horse remedy, article 49.3 of the French constitution,” says Pas. “Because the government – and in particular the part of the moderate Republicans – has not received the signal that there would be support for the bill”.
It is not the first time that a French president has approved laws through a presidential decree. And this is a risky move, Pas knows. While the president often remains indifferent to such a decision, parliament is able to table a motion of no confidence against the French prime minister and all ministers. However, Macron himself has already indicated that he will leave even if such a motion is tabled and supported.
Context
Point out that rule 49.3 has been used before, but never with a law that carries as much weight as this one. “Both public opinion and the entire union took sides against, opposed and harshly criticized,” continues Pas. “So you might wonder if this was the right way to go.”
Just expect the protests to continue and even increase. A new day of strike and demonstration has been announced next week and Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne’s government is facing a motion of censure on Monday, you know. “So another attempt is being made by the opposition to oust the government,” concludes Pas. “That requires an absolute majority, so it’s unlikely to happen. But of course you never know.”