France: government collapses in no-confidence vote
Prime minister Michel Barnier has been ousted in a historic no-confidence vote, leading to the collapse of his government. The motion follows his controversial use of special powers to pass a budget without parliamentary approval. The budget, which aimed to reduce the deficit by €60 billion, faced criticism from both the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) and far-right National Rally (RN); Marine Le Pen, RN leader, called it ‘toxic for the French’. This has plunged France into deeper political instability; no new parliamentary elections can be held until July, so the current deadlock in the Assembly - where no group has a working majority - is set to continue. Barnier, appointed by Emmanuel Macron just three months ago, has presented his government’s resignation, but will continue for now in a caretaker capacity. Macron’s presidency remains intact, but pressure on him is mounting.
France: Notre Dame reopens after restoration
Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen on 7 December, after a five-year restoration following the devastating 2019 fire. Ceremonies will blend tradition and modernity, including a symbolic door-striking ritual led by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich and a solemn Mass on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. (8 December). The restored cathedral features a mix of Gothic preservation and contemporary updates, such as a new altar and reliquary, sparking debate but garnering widespread admiration. Restoration efforts exceeded funding goals, totaling €700 million, and Paris anticipates a renewed influx of visitors. Somewhat surprisingly, Donald Trump’ will be there, joining nearly fifty world leaders: security will be tight, with 6,000 personnel deployed. Conspicuously absent, however, is Pope Francis, whose refusal to attend has fuelled speculation about the Vatican’s priorities. As Notre Dame prepares to welcome the faithful once again, its reopening symbolises resilience and the enduring significance of sacred spaces.
South Korea: president faces impeachment after failed declaration of martial law
South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol faces political turmoil after his controversial declaration of martial law on 3 December triggered calls for impeachment and police investigations into alleged insurrection. Opposition lawmakers accuse him of abusing power to suppress dissent under the guise of countering North Korea. The impeachment motion, set for a Saturday vote, requires a two-thirds majority in parliament, with opposition parties needing eight votes from Yoon’s ruling People Power Party (PPP) to pass. The martial law declaration, made during a late-night televised address, sparked immediate backlash. Armed troops attempted to block parliament but were repelled. Critics called the declaration unconstitutional. Yoon’s actions have divided his party and drawn widespread criticism. If he were to be impeached, the constitutional court would determine the outcome; prime minister Han Duck-soo could act as interim leader.
Syria: rebel forces capture Aleppo, now targeting Hama
Buoyed by their lightning capture of Aleppo and swathes of northern Syria, rebel forces – led by Islamist factions – are now targeting the strategically important town of Hama. This offensive, ending four years of relative calm in the region, has already displaced nearly 50,000 people, with many fleeing nearby towns. Over 600 people, including 104 civilians, have been killed to date. Hama is a former stronghold of anti-Assad sentiment; its capture would ‘pose a threat to the regime's popular base’. The Syrian military say that sizeable reinforcements have arrived to bolster the defence of Hama, with Russian air support. Abandoned military equipment along roads highlights the intense clashes. As winter deepens the plight of displaced civilians, the renewed violence underscores Syria’s enduring humanitarian crisis, drawing international appeals for peace.
