The New Popular Front Unveils Ambitious Legislative Program
The New Popular Front, a coalition of left-wing political parties, unveiled its comprehensive 'rupture' program ahead of early legislative elections. The program aims to significantly reshape France's political landscape if the coalition secures victory in the upcoming elections scheduled for June 30 and July 7. Included in the plan are the repeals of several key reforms and a commitment to raise the minimum wage to 1,600 euros net.
The coalition also pledges to revive the solidarity tax on wealth (ISF) with an added climate component within their first 100 days in power. This legislative contract, which was officially validated by the national council of the Socialist Party (PS), encapsulates broad measures encompassing purchasing power, health, education, environment, international affairs, and public freedoms.
Key Highlights of the Program
First 15 Days
The coalition intends to focus on immediate concerns affecting the lives of the French people. This includes freezing the prices of essential goods such as food, energy, and fuel, and canceling the planned gas price increase. They also plan to boost Personalized Housing Assistance (APL) by 10% and repeal the retirement reform, restoring the retirement age to 60. Additionally, the program addresses environmental concerns by announcing a moratorium on major infrastructure projects and mega-basins.
International Commitments
On the international front, the coalition aims to support Ukraine by defending its sovereignty and delivering necessary weapons. They also plan to assist in the release of hostages held since the Hamas terrorist attacks and advocate for the freedom of Palestinian political prisoners.
First 100 Days
In healthcare, the coalition promises to regulate the installation of doctors and enhance permanent care in health centers. They also plan to abolish Parcoursup and university selection, ensuring every student receives a one-euro meal. Environmentally, the program aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 and for France to become the European leader in marine energies.
The New Popular Front also commits to fighting racism and anti-Semitism, enhancing tax justice by increasing the progressivity of income tax, and abolishing inefficient and polluting tax loopholes.
Future Objectives: Months After
In the long term, the coalition seeks to restore the public service framework, ensuring no one lives more than thirty minutes from a public service reception. They plan to reform community policing, replace the current police inspectorates with an independent body, and address prison overcrowding. Transport improvements include lowering VAT on public transport fares and reopening small train lines.
Agricultural and Trade Policies
In agriculture, the coalition aims to cancel the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU and support organic and agroecological sectors. They also plan to defend biodiversity by protecting agricultural land and natural areas.
- The **New Popular Front's** program is an amalgamation of various leftist ideologies, reflecting the diverse political spectrum of its member parties. This collaboration signifies a strategic effort to present a united front in the legislative elections.
- Despite the extensive nature of the program, some points of contention remain unresolved, such as the identity of the coalition's potential prime minister. The *New Popular Front* aims to finalize candidate nominations across all 577 constituencies before the election dates.
- The program also includes ambitious social and environmental reforms, aiming to position France as a leader in green energy and to advance social equity by addressing inequalities through tax reforms and enhanced public services.
