On March 28, 2025, Prime Minister François Bayrou and Minister of National Education Élisabeth Borne unveiled a new initiative aimed at enhancing writing skills among students from kindergarten through university.

Bayrou emphasized that mastering written language is crucial for education and addressing social inequalities, especially in light of recent international studies showing France's poor performance in language skills.

The PISA and Pirls studies have indicated that the French education system exacerbates social inequalities, positioning France unfavorably compared to other countries.

A 2023 report revealed significant disparities in writing instruction across various classes and levels, highlighting a widespread issue with student mastery of writing skills.

To combat the influence of visual media and social networks, the government plans to integrate daily writing and reading practices across all subjects from primary school through high school.

The initiative includes explicit goals for writing education, emphasizing more frequent and varied writing activities along with a stricter approach to teaching.

The focus on daily writing exercises aims to help students rediscover the joy of writing, which has been overshadowed by modern digital distractions.

The government also intends to improve initial teacher training and ongoing professional development to enhance the quality of writing education.

Bayrou pointed out the alarming statistic that 30% of students fail to write adequately at the baccalaureate level, underscoring the need for reform in teacher training.

Concerns have been raised regarding whether this new plan will disrupt recently revised school programs or if it is simply a political gesture.

Borne is expected to present a detailed action plan within three months, with tangible measures set to be implemented by the start of the 2025 school year.

By summer 2025, Borne plans to reveal ambitious measures to promote writing in various forms from an early age, with support from a working group led by writer Erik Orsenna.