The protesters against pension reform are fighting the wrong fight

Pension protests in Paris

The spread of strikes in the energy sector endangers the French economy.

(Photo: IMAGO/IP3press)

When it comes to pension reform, the French unions show no mercy. The government must be prepared for a “black week”, they warn President Emmanuel Macron: Another strike is to be held on Tuesday – and this time the unions are threatening to continue the blockade indefinitely after a national day of protests, at least in some areas.

According to surveys, a majority of the French support the confrontational course. However, a prolonged major strike amidst inflation, supply chain problems and the energy crisis would pose a major risk to the French economy.

Because in the energy sector of all places, the unions want to expand the walkouts. At the end of last week, workers at the energy company EDF began to walk out, and French electricity production is falling. The strikes at Total Energies refineries are likely to impact the country’s supply of petrol and diesel. The consequence could be rising prices, not only for companies but also for working people.

France will not be spared pension reform

Pension reform is Macron’s central project in his second term. The protest is directed against the raising of the statutory retirement age from 62 to 64 years.

What the demonstrators don’t want to see is that the government has presented a balanced law that provides for exceptions for people with very long professional careers. As with the “yellow vest” protests against the increase in fuel prices, it is more about an outlet for general dissatisfaction.

The pension is the wrong topic for that. A look at the demographic forecasts is enough: The pension will not only decide the success of Macron’s presidency, but also the economic fate of the Grande Nation.

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