Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Thursday to protest against President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms, in a final day of demonstrations before a crucial court decision on the legislation. As on previous protest days, there were scuffles between police and protesters across the country, while demonstrators also stormed the headquarters of French luxury goods firm LVMH in Paris. FRANCE 24’s Catherine Norris Trent reports.
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Simmering anger has erupted into last-ditch protests in France over President Emmanuel Macron’s proposed pension reform. Despite widespread opposition, the government intends to pass the bill into law by the end of the year. The proposed reform would see the current multi-pension system replaced by a universal points-based system, which the president says will provide more fairness and transparency. However, unions and workers’ groups see the proposed changes as a threat to their current pension arrangements and means of security.

The protests have been ongoing for weeks and have brought the country to a standstill at times. Demonstrations and strikes have disrupted businesses, transport and public services in Paris, Marseille and other major cities. The actions have been peaceful, for the most part, but clashes between protesters and police have led to some violence and vandalism.

The anger among workers and unions is palpable, as they feel the proposed changes could see them working longer and receiving smaller pensions. The government stresses that the new system will provide for those who have historically been left behind, such as women and those with precarious employment, but many people remain sceptical.

The protests have taken on a political tone, with Macron’s political opponents weighing in on the issue. The far-left party La France Insoumise pledged to repeal the pension reform if it gains power, while the conservative opposition has criticized the government for not doing enough to protect pensioners.

The government has attempted to appease protesters, offering some concessions and promising to negotiate with unions. However, many workers and unions remain steadfast in their opposition and have vowed to continue protesting until the proposed reform is scrapped altogether.

The pension reform is just one of many challenges facing Macron’s government, which has been criticized for its handling of issues ranging from social inequality to climate change. The president has built a reputation as a reformer, but his perceived elitist approach and connection to the country’s wealthiest citizens have made him unpopular with many.

Whatever the outcome of the protests, it is clear that the simmering anger among workers and unions over the proposed pension reform is not going away anytime soon. The government will need to find a way to address their concerns and convince them that the new system will benefit them, or face continued unrest and opposition.