Exploring Why Frexit Supporters Are Outraged by Macron’s Pension Proposals
France’s recent strikes have shown how much unrest there is over new economic reforms proposed by the government. This is a rare show that France’s trade unions, with polls indicating that the vast majority of French support the proposed reforms, which could have huge implications for France’s costs of living. The day of Thursday will see rallies all over France. Though the course of the demonstrations aren’t yet certain, Helena Ivanov, from the Henry Jackson Society, believes that they may force the president Macron to reconsider his plan. The plan of the government to decrease the pension system and to freeze wages along with a reduction in the security of jobs is leading to a wave of protests with those in the French.
1. Which reforms are President Macron of France looking to put in the first
Macron is trying to reform the pension system in France, placing a particular emphasis on sustainability over the long term. The reforms proposed will create universal point-based system where everyone will receive the same rewards and contributions regardless of earnings or profession. This system would be a replacement for the present system consisting of 42 different pension schemes, that are dependent on what the worker does for. An earlier retirement age could be in the future with the new system because a person who is 64 years old is the current age for full pension. The reform plan includes provisions to cut down on the existing allowances , as well as the deductions.
2. What are the results of polls on the general public’s view of Macron’s changes?
Surveys suggest that general public’s opinion about Macron’s pension reforms is largely negative. According to a recent survey carried out by the French polling firm Ifop The majority of the respondents voiced their opposition to Macron’s proposals. The results showed that 59% of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the reforms, while just 32% of respondents expressed support in favor of the reforms. The results are in line with previous research into public opinion since the reforms were announced which indicates that the majority of French citizens oppose the pension reforms that are proposed. The majority believe the changes will result in an unfair burden for people and that they are complicated. This could explain their opposition is so strong.
3. What does the Henry Jackson Society’s Dr Helena Ivanov expecting the public rallies to be attended by the public?
The latest news regarding French President Emmanuel Macron’s proposed pension reforms has sparked anger among the French population, prompting the possibility of a possible “Frexit and exit from the European Union. Helena Ivanov, a Henry Jackson Society membership is voicing her concern concerning the possible demonstrations around Macron’s plan. Dr Ivanov believes that the protests will remain strong and long-lasting, which could indicate an increased level of discontent in the general public, and the risk of future political instability or unrest at some point in the future. They could also lead to the fall of the government as well as a possible ‘Frexit’ should Macron is able to continue his reforms of pensions.
4. What unions can be expected to participate in the Paris demonstration?
The announcement of French Macron’s plan for pension reforms has led to a wave of outrage in France which has led to demands for the country to hold a “Frexit” referendum that would allow France to exit France from the European Union. This has led to several protests across France, with the largest rally set to occur in Paris this Saturday. Unions representing all sectors, including CGT union, CGT the union French Democratic Confederation of Labour, Force Ouvriere, Solidaires, FSU and CFE-CGC are likely to take part in the Paris demonstration. It is anticipated to be the largest protest to Macron’s pension reforms, and most likely to be attended by those calling for to hold a Frexit referendum.
A Short Summary
In the end, this massive strike taking place across France is an indication of an increasing resentment among workers in the face of proposed changes to pensions as well as the turmoil they are confronting due to the current economic conditions. Europe is grappling with the effects of similar change in other countries, as do unions and labor organizations joining together with workers as they protest. Through bringing workers out in droves, the unions are sending out a strong message to their members that they will not take anything less than fair wage, conditions and benefits. Despite efforts by government officials from the French government to limit the effect of their actions, it’s obvious that these strikes have had an enormous influence on the economic landscape and will continue to do so as countries unite in the fight for fairness.
