News
France unveils new government to break political deadlock - French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has named a new cabinet after his first attempt last week was scrapped over criticism. The revised team blends experienced ministers with fresh faces, aiming to pass a delayed budget through a divided parliament. Facing EU pressure over public debt and domestic backlash over pension reforms, Lecornu has pledged to deliver a budget by year’s end. President Macron, yet to comment, heads to Egypt today, Monday 13th October, for Gaza ceasefire talks.
New EU-wide border control system - In other news, the introduction of a new EU-wide border control system requiring non-EU travellers to provide fingerprints, a facial photo, and personal details when entering or leaving European countries for short stays has been launched. The Entry/Exit System (EES), launched on Sunday, aims to tighten security and track overstays. Passengers who refuse biometric screening risk being turned away. Authorities say the system can be paused if it causes excessive wait times.
Nice Airport expansion sparks renewed criticism from environmental group - Despite losing a series of legal battles, the association Citoyen 06 continues to oppose the planned expansion of Nice Airport, accusing airport authorities of spreading misinformation. The group pointed to official data from an environmental impact study order by the court, which predicts a 43% rise in passenger traffic by 2034, that’s up to 21.2 million travellers and an increase of 80 additional flights per day. They argue this will have serious consequences for climate, public health, and biodiversity.
New measures for cruise ships in our region – Meanwhile, amid growing tensions over cruise ship traffic along the Côte d’Azur, the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture has unveiled strict new rules aiming to regulate the sector and address environmental concerns. Officials say the measures aim to balance financial interests with climate and public health concerns.
Local elections – Far left political party La France Insoumise (LFI) and the citizen movement ViVA have officially launched their joint campaign for the 2026 local elections. The alliance, named Nice Front Populaire (NFP) held their first public meeting in Place Garibaldi in Nice on Sunday. The group emphasized urgent social and environmental priorities for the city. The campaign program, they said, will be shaped with input from residents and guided by the core principles of the national New Popular Front.
New tool on mental health for students in Nice – The Université of the Côte d’Azur has launched a simple, colour-coded mental health barometer to help students assess their well-being. Available on campus and online, it covers sleep, stress, motivation, emotions, and social life. The tool aims to raise awareness and connect students to support services amid growing concerns, recent figures show that only 45% feel mentally well, 60% show distress, and nearly 38% consider dropping out.
Major redevelopment in Monaco - The Monaco government is launching a major redevelopment project in the eastern part of the Principality, targeting a key zone seen as vital for financial growth and social housing. After 15 years of delays, officials expressed impatience but welcomed plans to deliver 450 new apartments by 2030. However, the long-term vision for the wider neighbourhood remains unclear.
Sportel Monaco 2025 - Finally, Monaco is preparing for this years Sportel which runs from October 20th to the 22nd at the Grimaldi Forum, gathering top sports, media, and tech leaders such as LaLiga and Liverpool FC. The event features case studies, a startup pitch contest, and a Women’s Leadership Lunch with industry pioneers. Executive Director Loris Menoni calls it “the pulse of the industry” for shaping the future of sports business.
Business
Reappointed French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu called at the weekend, for political parties to come together to end what he described as the "ridiculous spectacle" in recent days, as he races to meet a deadline today, Monday 13th October, to present the national budget.
And - A major lawsuit against Mercedes, Ford, Peugeot/Citroën, Renault, and Nissan begins at the High Court today, with the carmakers accused of cheating emissions tests using illegal software. Lawyers say it’s the largest class action in English and Welsh history, potentially involving 1.6 million car owners. All five companies deny the allegations.
Sport
Tennis - World number 204 Valentin Vacherot upset his cousin Arthur Rinderknech to win his first ATP title at the Shanghai Masters. Monaco's Vacherot fought back from a set down to win 4-6 6-3 6-3.
Darts - World champion Luke Littler has defeated world number one Luke Humphries 6-1 in Leicester to win his first World Grand Prix title.
Football – Amongst this evening’s World Cup Qualifiers, Northern Ireland will face Germany, Iceland play France and Wales are at home to Belgium. Kick off for all the matches is at 8.45pm French time.
Weather
Sunny intervals with a gentle breeze. Highs of 22 degrees in Monaco, 23 degrees in Nice, 23 degrees in Saint-Paul de Vence and 24 degrees in Cannes. This evening going down to 15 degrees. The outlook for tomorrow and Wednesday, remaining mainly fine with highs of 24 degrees.
Sunrise 07.42am Sunset 06.50pm
And Finally
New research supports the “Scrooge effect,” showing that wealthier individuals tend to be more selfish and less empathetic. Studies reveal rich people are likelier to cheat, lie, and prioritize their own interests, while lower-income groups show greater compassion. Psychologist Dr. Steve Taylor explains this may be due to certain personality traits which drive both selfish behaviour and the pursuit of wealth. These traits also create a psychological emptiness that people try to fill with status and power. However, Dr. Taylor cautions that not all wealthy people fit this description, some inherit wealth or succeed through talent. And, importantly, beyond a certain point, money doesn’t increase happiness. True well-being comes from human connection, not wealth alone.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has named a new cabinet after his first attempt last week was scrapped over criticism. The revised team blends...
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The Alpes-Maritimes and Var departments will enjoy a sunny and calm weekend with clear skies and mild temperatures reaching up to 27°C. ...
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International leaders have welcomed the announcement of a breakthrough peace deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered as part of U.S. President Donald ...
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Former Education Minister Élisabeth Borne has urged political compromise “from the Republican right to the Socialist Party” to resolve France’s curren...
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French President Emmanuel Macron will appoint a new Prime Minister by tomorrow evening, following political talks led by outgoing Prime Minister Sébas...
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