French Protests Threaten Deficit Reduction as Debt Costs Rise

Ongoing protests in France are pressuring the government's plans to cut the deficit, complicating fiscal consolidation amid rising debt service costs and weak growth. Separately, experts warn that teacher shortages and unequal education access undermine youth skills, productivity, and future tax revenues, adding long-term fiscal risk. The immediate uncertainty is whether the government can sustain austerity measures against domestic opposition.