Emmanuel Macron Faces the French: Major Announcements and Red Lines

For three hours on Tuesday, May 13, Emmanuel Macron answered questions from a panel of French citizens on TF1. Eight years after taking office, the President addressed a wide range of issues—from the war in Ukraine to France’s social crises, including end-of-life legislation and upcoming economic reforms. In a clear effort to reconnect with the public, he notably raised the possibility of holding several referendums “in the coming months.”

Referendums, End-of-Life, and Pensions: The President Lays Out His Vision

Macron reaffirmed his intention to use referendums to bypass parliamentary gridlocks. “I would like us to hold several referendums at the same time, in the months ahead,” he said, citing major economic, educational, or social reforms—while excluding immigration and without providing a clear timetable. He did not rule out a referendum on end-of-life legislation, which is currently being debated in Parliament. “If we see a deadlock, a referendum may be an option,” he stated, though he hopes for a parliamentary vote.

Regarding the highly contested pension reform, the President firmly rejected any idea of a repeal referendum. “We didn’t make this reform with joy,” he said, arguing it will free up €17 billion by 2028. He announced a social conference to focus on funding the French welfare model and addressing the future of work.

International Crises: Hard Line on Moscow, Condemnation of Israel in Gaza

On international affairs, Macron strongly condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling them “shameful.” He denounced an “unacceptable humanitarian tragedy,” urged an end to the blockade, and raised the possibility of revisiting EU-Israel cooperation agreements. While he stopped short of labeling it “genocide,” he emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire.

On the war in Ukraine, he announced new “massive” sanctions against Russia, acknowledging the current lack of legal framework for using frozen Russian assets. He expressed willingness to negotiate with Vladimir Putin if a ceasefire were in place, in coordination with Ukraine and European allies. He also signaled openness to discussions about deploying nuclear-armed aircraft in other European countries.

Industry, Prisons, and Immigration: A Clear Liberal Stance

On economic and industrial policy, Macron ruled out nationalizing steel giant ArcelorMittal, despite job threats in Dunkirk and Fos-sur-Mer. “That would be spending billions for nothing,” he argued, saying he would instead demand guarantees from the company. “We will save Dunkirk and Fos, face to face,” he promised, relying on a broader European strategy to protect the steel industry.

Addressing prison overcrowding, the President said he was open to renting prison spaces abroad “if needed.” He also supported the idea of having inmates make a symbolic financial contribution toward their detention costs—a proposal backed by the justice minister. On immigration, he called for an annual parliamentary debate while rejecting the idea of a referendum on the issue.

Religion, Sports, and Taxation: Macron Balances Principles and Pragmatism

Responding to weightlifting champion Sylvie Eberena about wearing the veil in sports, Macron defended strict adherence to the Olympic Charter during competition. “There’s no place for a religious symbol there,” he said. However, he took a more nuanced stance on daily sports practice, allowing each federation to set its own rules.

On taxation, he was questioned by former Green Party leader Cécile Duflot about inheritance taxes but made no concrete announcements. He merely reiterated that redistribution and solidarity remain core principles, without promising a specific reform of inheritance tax policy.

A President in Office, Focused on the Future but Without a Timeline

When asked about his plans beyond 2027, Macron reminded viewers that he is the first French president barred from running again due to the 2008 constitutional reform. He dodged questions about a potential return in 2032: “I’m only focused on one thing—our country. I will fight until the end. When I’m done, I’ll think about what’s next.”

Amid social and geopolitical turmoil, the President is trying to retake control of the public conversation. His mission of political reconnection is built around three key words: responsibility, reform, and staying the course.