Macron Urges EU Budget Deal Before Year-End Amid Election Fears

French President Emmanuel Macron warned EU leaders on October 16 that they must agree on the bloc's next long-term budget (2028-2034 spending plan) before the end of the year.

Diplomats stated that elections in several countries, including France, will make a deal harder to secure in 2027. A special summit is scheduled for late November to reach an agreement on the budget, which requires unanimous approval. Macron reportedly told EU leaders that from January onwards, there will be no political room for agreement. The urgency reflects a crowded election calendar in 2027, including a presidential election in France in April and May. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen is the front-runner in polls for the 2027 French presidency.

Le Pen has pledged to cut France's contribution to the EU budget and urged EU leaders not to strike a deal before the French vote. Le Pen also vowed to cut financial support to Ukraine if she wins, stating France no longer has the financial means for aid, which has cost €6 billion a year.

An Ifop survey found 21 percent of French people would consider leaving the country if Le Pen wins, with 46 percent of Muslim respondents and 44 percent of French Jews considering emigration. The survey also found 81 percent of Muslim respondents believe a Le Pen victory would lead to increased aggression and discrimination. Le Pen has proposed banning the wearing of the Muslim headscarf in public places.

The EU budget negotiations face division between the “Frugals” (Germany, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, Sweden) seeking cuts and 17 “Friends of Cohesion” member states criticizing savings.