Will we still have a public holiday on November 11, 2025

November 11 is particularly targeted by certain elected officials, despite its symbolic value. However, voices are being raised to preserve this date, recalling the historical importance of this commemoration. This initiative raises debates about the real economic impact and social justice of the measure.

Soon a new day of solidarity?

The elimination of a public holiday, inspired by the Pentecost Monday model put in place in 2004, could constitute a financial windfall by increasing the solidarity contribution. By working an additional day without pay, employees would in fact allow companies to pay 0.3% of their payroll to support the National Solidarity Fund for Autonomy (CNSA).

This approach is defended by voices within the majority who consider this contribution as a less costly alternative to a broader review of employer social contributions. Despite this financing potential, several economic leaders, including Mathieu Plane of the French Observatory of Economic Conditions (OFCE), believe that the effect on GDP would be limited, especially in periods of low growth.

The arbitration will undoubtedly take place between the public holidays of November or May

On a political level, this measure arouses reluctance. Some elected officials, such as environmentalist senator Anne Souyris, denounce a measure which would mainly affect workers, without involving the holders of capital and dividends. The unions fear additional pressure after the numerous reforms which have already impacted workers’ rights. The precedents of the first day of solidarity also leave doubt: put in place after the heatwave of 2003, it generated criticism and widespread confusion in businesses, forcing the government to reverse its choice.

Finally, the choice of which public holiday to delete is divisive. Some elected officials propose the month of May, when there are many bridges, but November 11 is also mentioned. However, memorial organizations, including Souvenir Français, recall the importance of this date in honoring veterans. Prime Minister Michel Barnier, sensitive to this argument, was reluctant to question this day of commemoration, emphasizing the need to respect collective memory. The question therefore remains open and the final arbitration will probably be decided by parliament.