Daylight Saving Time: Should We Spring Forward or Fall Back?

Change is looming on the horizon and approaching quickly: are we about to adjust our clocks forward or backward?

History of Daylight Saving Time

Since 1916, France has implemented daylight saving time, a practice that spread throughout the European Union starting in 1998. Originally introduced by Germany and the United Kingdom, the primary goal was to save energy resources such as coal.

In France, daylight saving time was first established following a decree on September 19, 1975, after the oil crisis, experienced a brief discontinuation, and then was reinstated more robustly.

Transition to Daylight Saving Time 2025

What about this year? On Sunday, March 30, 2025, at 2 AM, France will switch to daylight saving time. A common question arises: “Do we sleep an hour more or less?” Simply put, we move our clocks forward by one hour. At 2 AM, add 60 minutes to make it 3 AM.

This change does not affect overseas regions, except for Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon.

A Pending European Directive

Since 1998, the shift to and from daylight saving time has been synchronized across the European Union. In March 2019, a directive to abolish seasonal time changes was approved by the MEPs. However, the Covid-19 crisis disrupted plans, and EU member countries have not agreed on a standard time to adopt.

Preparing for the Time Change

For those who struggle with the time change, several tips can help adapt more smoothly. Gradually adjust your body to the new time ahead of the change.

Make slight alterations to your lifestyle, embrace natural light, and engage in regular physical activity. At work, maintain your daily routines to minimize the impact of this transition.