French President Emmanuel Macron's government faces several motions of no-confidence in the national assembly today after his government forced through a deeply unpopular pension reform bill. Scores of demonstrators have taken to the streets in various parts of the country with some union leaders even saying that they will continue to demonstrate even if the bill gets passed.

Has Macron gone too far pushing through pension reform?

Protests continue throughout France as thousands of people marched through the country amidst anger against the government for passing the pension reform bill without a Parliamentary vote. In capital, Paris, police clashed with the demonstrators for the third night in a row.

France: Protests continue over pension reforms, garbage collectors extend strike

Protest against the contentious pension reform bill in France are continuing. Several protesters held a demonstration in the capital city Paris for a second consecutive day. This demonstration escalated into clashes with the police.

France: Protesters take to the streets against pension reform bill's imposition

French president Macron has passed the new pension reforms and increased the retirement age from 62 to 64. Opposition leaders have urged for a no-confidence motion against Macron. Will the French government empathise with its citizens? Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms

Fuel deliveries were blocked from all French refineries, according to union officials, as protesters again took to the streets over government plans to raise the pension age from 62 to 64.

France: Protests against pension reform; chaos prevails in Paris for second day

The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris.

"Macron, Resign!" calls reverberated on the streets on Friday — the second night of the agitation — as thousands of protesters took on the police at Paris' Place de la Concorde, near the Assemblee Nationale parliament building.

Images from Reuters TV showed cops using tear gas on the disorderly crowd who, in response, lit fires and some threw firecrackers at police.

Protests also took place on Friday in other French cities — notably Bordeaux, Toulon and Strasbourg. At least dozens of people were arrested during the unrest at Place de la Concorde.

"We won't give up," one demonstrator told AFP news agency. "There's still hope that the reform can be revoked."

Another protester told Reuters that pushing the legislation through without a vote was "a denial of democracy... a total denial of what has been happening in the streets for several weeks".

<h1>Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms</h1>

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For the past two days, France has been seething with unrest ever since Macron decided to push through the controversial reforms to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a parliamentary vote.

No-confidence motions have been filed against his government in response that will be debated early next week.

Leader of the National Rally MPs in parliament, Marine Le Pen, slammed Macron for hurrying through pension changes and called it "a total failure for the government".

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The government believes that pension reforms are essential to ensure the system doesn’t go bust and prevent it from collapsing. However, union members disagree.

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The contrasting opinions on the pension reforms created a stand-off between the union members and the government and resulted in heated political debate and strikes for more than two months.

A broad alliance of France's main unions said they would continue their mobilisation to try and force a U-turn on the changes. Protests are planned for this weekend, with a new day of nationwide industrial action scheduled for Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris.

The unrest over French President Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms turned violent as protesters and the police clashed with each other in central Paris. "Macron, Resign!" calls reverberated on the streets on Friday — the second night of the agitation — as thousands of protesters took on the police at Paris' Place de la Concorde, near the Assemblee Nationale parliament building. Images from Reuters TV showed cops using tear gas on the disorderly crowd who, in response, lit fires and some threw firecrackers at police. Protests also took place on Friday in other French cities — notably Bordeaux, Toulon and Strasbourg. At least dozens of people were arrested during the unrest at Place de la Concorde. "We won't give up," one demonstrator told AFP news agency. "There's still hope that the reform can be revoked." Another protester told Reuters that pushing the legislation through without a vote was "a denial of democracy... a total denial of what has been happening in the streets for several weeks". Gravitas: France passes new pension reforms For the past two days, France has been seething with unrest ever since Macron decided to push through the controversial reforms to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a parliamentary vote. No-confidence motions have been filed against his government in response that will be debated early next week. Leader of the National Rally MPs in parliament, Marine Le Pen, slammed Macron for hurrying through pension changes and called it "a total failure for the government". Also read | Russian defence minister honours pilots involved in downing of US drone The government believes that pension reforms are essential to ensure the system doesn’t go bust and prevent it from collapsing. However, union members disagree. Also read | Facebook parent Meta launches its subscription service in USA, check out cost The contrasting opinions on the pension reforms created a stand-off between the union members and the government and resulted in heated political debate and strikes for more than two months. A broad alliance of France's main unions said they would continue their mobilisation to try and force a U-turn on the changes. Protests are planned for this weekend, with a new day of nationwide industrial action scheduled for Thursday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French union members, police clash over Emmanuel Macron’s controversial pension reforms

Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree. Speaking to the news agency AFP, the head of the Liot group Bertrand Pancher said, "The vote on this motion will allow us to get out on top of a deep political crisis."

A day back, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne used a special procedure to push the pensions bill through the National Assembly without a vote.&nbsp;

"Ladies and gentlemen, members of parliament, today, on the parliament bill, and due to the uncertainty hanging over a few votes, we can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate collapse, we can't take the risk of seeing the compromise built by the two assemblies dismissed. We cannot bet on the future of our pensions. This reform is necessary," Prime Minister Borne said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The pension overhaul raises France's retirement age by two years to 64, which the government says is essential to ensure the system does not go bust. Unions, and most French, however, disagree. The citizens are deeply attached to keeping the official retirement age at 62, which is among the lowest in OECD countries.

For weeks, protests have been going on to oppose the reform. The demonstrations took a violent turn on Thursday after cars were torched in Paris and other French cities.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;Toluna Harris Interactive poll for RTL radio showed that more than eight out of 10 people were unhappy with the government's decision to skip a vote in parliament, and 65 per cent wanted strikes and protests to continue.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree.

Opposition lawmakers in France on Friday (March 17) filed a no-confidence motion against President Emmanuel Macron's government after it posted the contested pensions reform by decree. Speaking to the news agency AFP, the head of the Liot group Bertrand Pancher said, "The vote on this motion will allow us to get out on top of a deep political crisis." A day back, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne used a special procedure to push the pensions bill through the National Assembly without a vote. "Ladies and gentlemen, members of parliament, today, on the parliament bill, and due to the uncertainty hanging over a few votes, we can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate collapse, we can't take the risk of seeing the compromise built by the two assemblies dismissed. We cannot bet on the future of our pensions. This reform is necessary," Prime Minister Borne said on Thursday. The pension overhaul raises France's retirement age by two years to 64, which the government says is essential to ensure the system does not go bust. Unions, and most French, however, disagree. The citizens are deeply attached to keeping the official retirement age at 62, which is among the lowest in OECD countries. For weeks, protests have been going on to oppose the reform. The demonstrations took a violent turn on Thursday after cars were torched in Paris and other French cities. A Toluna Harris Interactive poll for RTL radio showed that more than eight out of 10 people were unhappy with the government's decision to skip a vote in parliament, and 65 per cent wanted strikes and protests to continue. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France: Opposition lawmakers file no confidence motion over pension reforms

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament. People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64. As protests escalated, tear gas was fired by the police as they tried to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing cobblestones.

Fresh protests erupt as French government pushes pension bill without full vote

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament.

People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64. As protests escalated, tear gas was fired by the police as they tried to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing cobblestones.

Special constitutional powers were used by the French government to force through the pension reforms bill amid chaos in parliament as radical left MPs started singing La Marseillaise loudly to stop French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne from speaking.

A last-minute decision was taken by French President Emmanuel Macron to avoid a parliamentary vote and pass the legislation to increase the pension age from 62 to 64.

Minutes before the country's MPs were to cast vote in the lower house, Macron was busy conducting frantic meetings with senior political figures, and in minutes, he decided to use special powers and not take the risk of voting, in which he had chances of losing.&nbsp;

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Macron invoked the constitution's article 49.3 which gives the government the power to bypass parliament. On the left, MPs shouted “Resign! Resign!” at Borne, and radical left party France Unbowed's members sang the national anthem loudly so that Borne is not able to speak and the session gets suspended.

Speaking at the parliament, Borne said that they will push the bill through because the government cannot afford to “gamble the future of our pensions”.

The bill was earlier adopted by the Senate on Thursday. However, since the right-wing opposition MPs present in the National Assembly were reluctant to support Macron, the government had a fair chance of facing defeat in the lower house.

"We can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate come to nothing," Borne said while announcing the move.

Far-right leader Marine Le Pen said, "It's a total failure for the government. From the beginning the government fooled itself into thinking it had a majority."

As per the polls, around two-thirds of citizens in France oppose the pension overhaul.

WATCH | French Upper House Senate passes Pension Bill

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"When a president has no majority in the country, no majority in the National Assembly, he must withdraw his bill," said Socialist Party chief Olivier Faure.

Few opposition parties, including Le Pen's, are likely to call a no-confidence vote on Friday, however, the cabinet of Borne is likely to survive because of support from the right-wing Republicans party.

Immediately after the step, Unions called for mass strikes and protests for the next day, as they called the government's move "a complete denial of democracy".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament. People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64.

Police clashed with protesters in Paris after the French government took the decision to force through pension reforms without voting in parliament. People gathered on Place de la Concorde to protest against the increase in the retirement age from 62 to 64. As protests escalated, tear gas was fired by the police as they tried to disperse the crowd. Protesters were seen throwing cobblestones. Special constitutional powers were used by the French government to force through the pension reforms bill amid chaos in parliament as radical left MPs started singing La Marseillaise loudly to stop French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne from speaking. A last-minute decision was taken by French President Emmanuel Macron to avoid a parliamentary vote and pass the legislation to increase the pension age from 62 to 64. Minutes before the country's MPs were to cast vote in the lower house, Macron was busy conducting frantic meetings with senior political figures, and in minutes, he decided to use special powers and not take the risk of voting, in which he had chances of losing. ALSO READ | France protests: Govt to force Paris rubbish collectors to return to work as trash stacks up Macron invoked the constitution's article 49.3 which gives the government the power to bypass parliament. On the left, MPs shouted “Resign! Resign!” at Borne, and radical left party France Unbowed's members sang the national anthem loudly so that Borne is not able to speak and the session gets suspended. Speaking at the parliament, Borne said that they will push the bill through because the government cannot afford to “gamble the future of our pensions”. The bill was earlier adopted by the Senate on Thursday. However, since the right-wing opposition MPs present in the National Assembly were reluctant to support Macron, the government had a fair chance of facing defeat in the lower house. "We can't take the risk of seeing 175 hours of parliamentary debate come to nothing," Borne said while announcing the move. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen said, "It's a total failure for the government. From the beginning the government fooled itself into thinking it had a majority." As per the polls, around two-thirds of citizens in France oppose the pension overhaul. WATCH | French Upper House Senate passes Pension Bill "When a president has no majority in the country, no majority in the National Assembly, he must withdraw his bill," said Socialist Party chief Olivier Faure. Few opposition parties, including Le Pen's, are likely to call a no-confidence vote on Friday, however, the cabinet of Borne is likely to survive because of support from the right-wing Republicans party. Immediately after the step, Unions called for mass strikes and protests for the next day, as they called the government's move "a complete denial of democracy". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Protests escalate as Macron overrides parliament to pass pension reform in France

The French government will force rubbish collectors in Paris to return to work after the long strikes<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-government-doubles-down-on-pension-reforms-571237"> following a days-long strike against pension reforms</a> has left many streets in the capital piled with stinking waste. On Wednesday, police chief Laurent Nunez informed Paris mayor&nbsp;Anne Hidalgo that the government would use its power&nbsp;to "requisition" striking trash collectors, forcing them back to work under threat of prosecution, the news agency AFP reported on Thursday

According to city hall figures, around 7,600 tonnes of rubbish were piled on the streets of Paris by Wednesday.&nbsp;

For weeks, workers in France have walked off the job in protest against President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron's plans to reform the pension system, whose headline measures are raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 and increasing the number of years people must pay in to receive a full pension.

AFP reported that rubbish collectors have run one of the few rolling strikes against the proposed changes, while&nbsp;other sectors have held successive one-day walkouts accompanying mass demonstrations.

Paris Mayor Hidalgo- who sides with the protesters- said that the demand of the rubbish workers in the capital, who do not want to work for two years longer, was fair.&nbsp;

"The only answer that could calm the current climate is social dialogue, rather than a test of strength," she added.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, private waste collection company Derichebourg said that it would stop filling in for city binmen after it was threatened with pickets on its depots. And a day later, police cleared a blockade at another private waste firm, Pizzorno Environment, allowing its trucks to resume collections in Paris' 15th district and from 150 schools across the capital.&nbsp;

And on Thursday, thousands of people massed in France's capital to protest President Macron's government imposing the controversial pensions overhaul without a parliament vote.

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The French government will force rubbish collectors in Paris to return to work after the long strikes following a days-long strike against pension reforms has left many streets in the capital piled with stinking waste.

The French government will force rubbish collectors in Paris to return to work after the long strikes following a days-long strike against pension reforms has left many streets in the capital piled with stinking waste. On Wednesday, police chief Laurent Nunez informed Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo that the government would use its power to "requisition" striking trash collectors, forcing them back to work under threat of prosecution, the news agency AFP reported on Thursday According to city hall figures, around 7,600 tonnes of rubbish were piled on the streets of Paris by Wednesday. For weeks, workers in France have walked off the job in protest against President Emmanuel Macron's plans to reform the pension system, whose headline measures are raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 and increasing the number of years people must pay in to receive a full pension. AFP reported that rubbish collectors have run one of the few rolling strikes against the proposed changes, while other sectors have held successive one-day walkouts accompanying mass demonstrations. Paris Mayor Hidalgo- who sides with the protesters- said that the demand of the rubbish workers in the capital, who do not want to work for two years longer, was fair. "The only answer that could calm the current climate is social dialogue, rather than a test of strength," she added. On Wednesday, private waste collection company Derichebourg said that it would stop filling in for city binmen after it was threatened with pickets on its depots. And a day later, police cleared a blockade at another private waste firm, Pizzorno Environment, allowing its trucks to resume collections in Paris' 15th district and from 150 schools across the capital. And on Thursday, thousands of people massed in France's capital to protest President Macron's government imposing the controversial pensions overhaul without a parliament vote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France protests: Govt to force Paris rubbish collectors to return to work as trash stacks up

France’s Senate passed the government’s plan to reform its pension system on Thursday, including raising the country’s retirement age by two years to 64. Watch the video to know more.

French Upper House Senate passes Pension Bill

French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday won approval from the upper house Senate for his controversial pensions reform, including raising the country's retirement age by two years to 64.

Emmanuel Macron wins pension reform backing from French upper house

Due to strikes garbage piles up on the streets of Paris, and sanitation workers are not happy with the Macron government. The streets that used to carry the aroma of French perfumes and food are now filled with overflowing bins and rotting food in some of the bags.

Paris: City of 'Romance' turns into city of 'Trash' as sanitation workers continue to strike

French government spokesman Olivier Veran said on Sunday (March 12) that the government will not give up on its pension reform bill. The bill was adopted at the French senate on Saturday amid nationwide protests against the reforms.

195 members of the upper house of the French Parliament voted for the text, whose key measure is raising the retirement age by two years to 64, while 112 voted against.

"We have made an important step," Veran said, vowing to continue consultations with political parties to get the law passed by both houses of parliament in the coming week.

Protests and rolling strikes that have affected refineries, public transport and garbage collections aimed to pressure the government to withdraw the pension plan, which it said is essential to ensure the pension system does not run out of money.

Now that the Senate has adopted the bill, it will be reviewed by a joint committee of lower and upper house lawmakers, probably on Wednesday (March 15).

If the committee agrees on a text, a final vote in both chambers is likely to take place on Thursday (March 16), but the outcome of that still seems uncertain in the lower chamber, the National Assembly, where Macron's party needs allies' votes for a majority.

If the government fears it won't have enough votes in the lower house, it is still possible for it to push the text through without a parliamentary vote, via a so-called 49:3 procedure.

(With inputs from agencies)

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French government spokesman Olivier Veran said on Sunday (March 12) that the government will not give up on its pension reform bill. The bill was adopted at the French senate on Saturday amid nationwide protests against the reforms.

French government spokesman Olivier Veran said on Sunday (March 12) that the government will not give up on its pension reform bill. The bill was adopted at the French senate on Saturday amid nationwide protests against the reforms. 195 members of the upper house of the French Parliament voted for the text, whose key measure is raising the retirement age by two years to 64, while 112 voted against. "We have made an important step," Veran said, vowing to continue consultations with political parties to get the law passed by both houses of parliament in the coming week. Protests and rolling strikes that have affected refineries, public transport and garbage collections aimed to pressure the government to withdraw the pension plan, which it said is essential to ensure the pension system does not run out of money. Now that the Senate has adopted the bill, it will be reviewed by a joint committee of lower and upper house lawmakers, probably on Wednesday (March 15). If the committee agrees on a text, a final vote in both chambers is likely to take place on Thursday (March 16), but the outcome of that still seems uncertain in the lower chamber, the National Assembly, where Macron's party needs allies' votes for a majority. If the government fears it won't have enough votes in the lower house, it is still possible for it to push the text through without a parliamentary vote, via a so-called 49:3 procedure. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

French government doubles down on pension reforms

Despite raging protests across the country. The French senate has decided to adopt Macron's unpopular pension reform plan. There were 195 votes for and 112 votes against the bill in which a key point is to raise the age of retirement by two years from 62 to 64.

French senate passes pension reform bill amid raging protests

The French Senate late Saturday (March 11) approved President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform plan despite massive protests opposing the policy. In the upper house of Parliament, 195 members voted for the text while 112 voted against it.

The French Senate late Saturday (March 11) approved President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform plan despite massive protests opposing the policy. In the upper house of Parliament, 195 members voted for the text while 112 voted against it. Taking to Twitter, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said, "After hundreds of hours of discussions, the Senate adopted the pension reform plan. It is a key step to make reform happen that will guarantee the future of our pension system." Borne said that she was committed to ensuring the text would be definitively adopted in the coming days. With the Senate adopting the bill, it will be reviewed by a joint committee of lower and upper house lawmakers, probably on Wednesday, according to a report by the news agency Reuters. If the committee agrees on the text, a final vote in both chambers is likely to take place the next day. However, the outcome of the vote seems uncertain in the lower chamber where President Macron's party needs allies' votes for a majority. If the government fears it would not have enough votes in the lower house, it is still possible for it to push the text through without a parliamentary vote, via a so-called 49:3 procedure. Protests intensify On Saturday, around 368,000 protesters marched in various cities of France to oppose the pension reform. As with the previous demonstrations, Saturday's protest did not see any major scuffles with the police. According to government figures, 1.28 million took to the streets on Tuesday (March 7), the highest turnout since the beginning of the protests. More nationwide strikes and protests have been planned for Wednesday (March 15). The pension reform plan's headline measure is the hike in the minimum age retirement to 64 from 62, seen by many as unfair to people who started working young. The reform would also increase the number of years people have to make contributions to receive a full pension. Speaking to the news agency AFP on Saturday, retired train driver Claude Jeanvoine said that he was protesting for "my colleagues and for our young people." "People shouldn't let the government get away with this, this is about the future of their children and grandchildren," Jeanvoine, 63, demonstrating in Strasbourg said. The protesters also pointed out that women, especially mothers, were at a disadvantage under the new reform. "If I'd known this was coming, I wouldn't have stopped working to look after my kids when they were small," said Sophie Merle, a 50-year-old childcare provider in the southern city of Marseille. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

France: Senate approves Macron’s pension reform plan despite massive protests

Around 20,000 soldiers from nine countries are participating in one of the largest winter exercises held annually. This year the mega joint viking winter exercise is currently underway in Northern Norway.

Soldiers from France, Germany, UK and U.S. participating in Norway-led winter exercise

Corinne Diacre has been sacked from her role as head coach of the France Women's national team, the French Football Federation has confirmed. Watch the video to know more.

Corinne Diacre: France sack head coach four months before Women's World Cup

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak travelled to Paris to attend a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. The two leaders are expected to flesh out agreements on migrant crossings, energy security and protecting people from the threat of Russia.

Macron welcomes Sunak, focus on bilateral relations, migration and military ties

The French senate voted on Thursday to raise the retirement age by two years to 64. The pension system overhaul is a part of a broad bill that is the flagship measure of French president Emmanuel macron's second term. The conservative dominated legislative body voted in favour to raise the age of retirement by 201 votes to 115. Meanwhile women in France took to the streets protesting against the pension reform. The culture sector workers also protested inside Paris' louvre museum against the government's proposed pension reform.

French senate votes to raise retirement age

The French Senate on Thursday voted 201-115 to raise the retirement age by two years to 64 even as protests continued across the country. The Senate, dominated by the conservative Les Republicains party voted in favour of the motion, giving President Emmanuel Macron his first mini-victory in the ongoing saga.

The French Senate on Thursday voted 201-115 to raise the retirement age by two years to 64 even as protests continued across the country. The Senate, dominated by the conservative Les Republicains party voted in favour of the motion, giving President Emmanuel Macron his first mini-victory in the ongoing saga. Macron's government is facing a midnight Sunday deadline to finalise the legislation. The Senate on Thursday voted in favour of article 7 of the reform legislation while the remaining articles are expected be approved later this week. Afterwards, the proposal will be sent to a meditation committee comprising lawmakers from the Senate and the National Assembly. The passing of the bill comes a day after fuel deliveries from refineries across the country were blocked by striking workers. According to official figures, on the biggest day of demonstrations so far, 1.27 million people participated in the protest on January 31. Read more: France hit with new round of protests against pensions reform plan Why is the government extending the age limit? The government is of the view that extending the pension age will prevent the French service system from collapsing under the weight of deficits. Notably, the workers in France tend to retire much earlier than their European Union (EU) counterparts. The direct repercussion is that the French exchequer has to foot a bigger pension bill than most countries in the bloc. The French pensioners also receive 54.4 per cent of their last pay slip as pension on average. Comparatively, the average EU pension amount stands at 46.2 per cent. WATCH | WION Fineprint: French pension reforms face backlash In January, taking a stern approach, Macron said he will get the reform bill passed this year only. “This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” he had said in a televised address. Despite the resistance, the Macron government has remained steadfast that it will pass the legislation, having failed to do so on previous occasions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Mini-victory' for Macron as French Senate vote approves raising retirement age to 64

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Gravitas Global Headlines: France pension protests | Meta job cuts

More than 250 protests have been staged in the French capital Paris and around the country against President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms with rubbish collectors, utility workers, train drivers and others walking off the job against the proposed legislation.

French workers stage massive strike against pension reform

"In the post-pandemic world and with increasing natural calamities, it has become important to prepare for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) operations", Major Kalfon, Commander, Embedded Tactical Group, French Army told WION.

A contingent of 120 personnel from the French Army are in southern India for the "FRINJEX-23'—a first-of-its-kind exercise between the Indian and French Army, focusing on providing Humanitarian aid for the civilian population in times of need.

While Indian and French Armed Forces conduct routine combat exercises, a HADR-centric one is a unique development.

On Monday, the French contingent arrived in the southern port city of Kochi, Kerala, onboard the French Amphibious Assault ship “Dixmude” and then proceeded to the capital city Thiruvananthapuram.

Starting Tuesday, the Indian Army's Pangode Military Station in Thiruvananthapuram will host the two-day joint exercise aimed at enhancing the cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian and French troops and boosting bilateral defence ties.&nbsp;

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120 <a href="https://twitter.com/armeedeterre?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@armeedeterre</a> personnel accorded a warm&amp; traditional <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indian</a> welcome at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indianarmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indianarmy</a> Pangode military station in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thiruvananthapuram?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thiruvananthapuram</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kerala</a> ,where they will take part in a 2-day, 1st-of-it’s-kind HADR-focused <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/exercise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#exercise</a> with the Indian army.. 
 
Ex on Tue&amp; Wed <a href="https://t.co/iDIQSlhih4">pic.twitter.com/iDIQSlhih4</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1632748391179636738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Major Kalfon said that the visiting French contingent comprise of six officers and 114 troops from the French Army's 6th&nbsp;Armoured Brigade, which specialises in amphibious operations.

From the Indian Army side, 120 personnel from India's 91 Infantry Brigade are representing in this exercise. This brigade is the only one in the Indian Army to perform amphibious operations.&nbsp;

"Our contingent comprises a wide mix of troops with different capabilities - light cavalry, engineer regiment and people from infantry and artillery," Major Kalfon told WION.

Apart from the HADR operations, the two-day exercise will also feature exercises such as weapon-firing, securing of communication lines, providing first-aid, cultural exchange, combat in urban scenario etc. Indian and French troops will intermingle and work together as part of small teams to learn the best practices and gain the experience of working together on a common objective.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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"In the post-pandemic world and with increasing natural calamities, it has become important to prepare for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) operations", Major Kalfon, Commander, Embedded Tactical Group, French Army told WION.

"In the post-pandemic world and with increasing natural calamities, it has become important to prepare for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief(HADR) operations", Major Kalfon, Commander, Embedded Tactical Group, French Army told WION. A contingent of 120 personnel from the French Army are in southern India for the "FRINJEX-23'—a first-of-its-kind exercise between the Indian and French Army, focusing on providing Humanitarian aid for the civilian population in times of need. While Indian and French Armed Forces conduct routine combat exercises, a HADR-centric one is a unique development. On Monday, the French contingent arrived in the southern port city of Kochi, Kerala, onboard the French Amphibious Assault ship “Dixmude” and then proceeded to the capital city Thiruvananthapuram. Starting Tuesday, the Indian Army's Pangode Military Station in Thiruvananthapuram will host the two-day joint exercise aimed at enhancing the cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian and French troops and boosting bilateral defence ties. 120 @armeedeterre personnel accorded a warm& traditional #indian welcome at the #indianarmy Pangode military station in #Thiruvananthapuram #kerala ,where they will take part in a 2-day, 1st-of-it’s-kind HADR-focused #exercise with the Indian army.. Ex on Tue& Wed pic.twitter.com/iDIQSlhih4 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) March 6, 2023 × Major Kalfon said that the visiting French contingent comprise of six officers and 114 troops from the French Army's 6th Armoured Brigade, which specialises in amphibious operations. From the Indian Army side, 120 personnel from India's 91 Infantry Brigade are representing in this exercise. This brigade is the only one in the Indian Army to perform amphibious operations. "Our contingent comprises a wide mix of troops with different capabilities - light cavalry, engineer regiment and people from infantry and artillery," Major Kalfon told WION. Apart from the HADR operations, the two-day exercise will also feature exercises such as weapon-firing, securing of communication lines, providing first-aid, cultural exchange, combat in urban scenario etc. Indian and French troops will intermingle and work together as part of small teams to learn the best practices and gain the experience of working together on a common objective. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French Army major speaks to WION on uniqueness of Indo-French Army exercise 'FRINJEX-23'

In Pics: France paralysed amid massive nationwide protests against pension reforms

French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017.&nbsp;The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties. WION examines what is&nbsp;at risk for the president, the unions, and the nation as a whole as labour unions attempt to "put the country to a standstill."

<h2>Macron's pension reform: What is the plan?</h2>

In order to put France more in line with its European Union&nbsp;(EU) neighbours, most of which have raised the retirement age to 65 or higher, Macron's flagship plan would raise the minimum retirement age from its present level of 62 to 64, as reported by the Associated Press.&nbsp;

The measure also tightens the criteria for receiving a full pension and limits perks enjoyed by some public-sector workers, including those working for the Paris Metro.

The administration now emphasises that it is more about savings after stating previously&nbsp;that it was meant to make the system fairer.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media.

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🇫🇷 Gigantic demonstration in Marseille against the pension reform. <a href="https://t.co/tpmUsml9RM">pic.twitter.com/tpmUsml9RM</a>
— 𝚁𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚅𝙰𝙲𝙲𝙸𝙽𝙴 (@72powpow) <a href="https://twitter.com/72powpow/status/1633069703924183041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The status quo in the next 10 years means 150 billion euros [$160 billion] of accumulated deficits and a fall in the quality of life of pensioners," Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt said at the weekend.&nbsp;

The revisions, which would also result in minor hikes for the lowest pensions, are expected to take effect in September 2023.&nbsp;

<h2>Who are against pension reforms?</h2>

The trade unions in France have planned five different protest days so far, but on Tuesday (March 7), they'll pick up the pace, and the possibility of rolling strikes could have serious consequences in the days to come, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

Their major issue is that, in comparison to university graduates, unskilled people who frequently toil in physically taxing jobs and start their careers early are being&nbsp;penalised by the reforms.

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df314e76-3141-471d-93ba-72310130465f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%2838%29.png" />

A cyclist passes by a banner that reads, ' Retirement at... raise fist strike, blockage, Macron get out' during protests in Montpellier, southern France on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP

They also dispute the government's claim that the pay-as-you-go pension system faces impending deficits, arguing that modest increases in contributions may prevent this from happening.

The unions have the support of both the Socialists and Greens as well as the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) political party, which wants to cut the retirement age to 60.

In addition to opposing the reform, Marine Le Pen's far-right party is also troubled by proposals to impose rolling strikes in France.

A host of left-wing scholars have also voiced disapproval, particularly famous economist Thomas Piketty, who views Macron as strengthening his reputation as "the president of the rich," as per AFP reports.&nbsp;

<h2>How do the strikes affect Macron?</h2>

During his first term, Macron attempted to advance pension reform but was unsuccessful. In April, during his re-election campaign, Macron brought up the subject once more.

Running on a similar pro-business platform, he beat Le Pen by promising to reduce unemployment and force the French to "work harder" in order to pay for the nation's social security system.

Political experts disagree, though, and Macron himself conceded in his victory speech that many people had supported him just to protect Le Pen from winning the presidency.

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="292fbbc5-958d-4eef-ae4c-d61a17ef664a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%2839%29.png" />

CGT unionists take part in a demonstration on the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) in Marseille on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP

The 45-year-old has moved forward despite concerns from allies about the timing of the change so soon after the COVID-19 outbreak and in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.

"For Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron, pulling back would be an abdication," senior right-wing senator Bruno Retailleau, who supports the reform, told AFP.&nbsp;"If he pulled back, he couldn't reform anymore, his term would be over," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Are these protests common in France?&nbsp;</h2>

Since reforms occur in France without opposition, the administration is&nbsp;bracing itself for a rough road since the onset of the protests.&nbsp;

The labour movement's accomplishments over the past century are viewed by left-wingers as being under attack whenever there is an attempt to limit workers' rights, whether it be through reduced working hours, generous pensions, or protected employment contracts.

The 2010 demonstrations, when right-wing president Nicolas Sarkozy increased the retirement age from 60 to 62, may end up being eclipsed by the current ones.

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media.

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🤬🇫🇷 Police throw TEAR GAS at protesters as they block highways and trucks all across France, just the beginning of full-scale demonstrations in country expected today, March 7, over government’s pension reform. <a href="https://t.co/4MYdxZLzNq">pic.twitter.com/4MYdxZLzNq</a>
— Truthseeker (@Xx17965797N) <a href="https://twitter.com/Xx17965797N/status/1633046148788150274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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They surpass those of 1995, when the government was compelled to do the infamous U-turn on pensions, and are also larger.

The emergence of working from home and modern technologies has lessened interruptions, so the impact of Tuesday's stoppages is different.

<h2>What to expect next?</h2>

The government's plan is simple: push the law through parliament as quickly as possible and win approval by the middle of this month, or at the latest by March 26, as examined by AFP.

Macron's centrist party does not currently hold a majority in the National Assembly, but it should be able to rely on support from the right-wing Republican party to gain the required majorities in both houses.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017. The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties.

French president Emmanuel Macron is engaged in his biggest standoff with the country's labour unions since taking office in 2017. The end of a series of strikes and rallies over pension reform is crucial for both parties. WION examines what is at risk for the president, the unions, and the nation as a whole as labour unions attempt to "put the country to a standstill." Macron's pension reform: What is the plan? In order to put France more in line with its European Union (EU) neighbours, most of which have raised the retirement age to 65 or higher, Macron's flagship plan would raise the minimum retirement age from its present level of 62 to 64, as reported by the Associated Press. The measure also tightens the criteria for receiving a full pension and limits perks enjoyed by some public-sector workers, including those working for the Paris Metro. The administration now emphasises that it is more about savings after stating previously that it was meant to make the system fairer. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media. 🇫🇷 Gigantic demonstration in Marseille against the pension reform. pic.twitter.com/tpmUsml9RM — 𝚁𝙰𝙶𝙴 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚅𝙰𝙲𝙲𝙸𝙽𝙴 (@72powpow) March 7, 2023 × "The status quo in the next 10 years means 150 billion euros [$160 billion] of accumulated deficits and a fall in the quality of life of pensioners," Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt said at the weekend. The revisions, which would also result in minor hikes for the lowest pensions, are expected to take effect in September 2023. Who are against pension reforms? The trade unions in France have planned five different protest days so far, but on Tuesday (March 7), they'll pick up the pace, and the possibility of rolling strikes could have serious consequences in the days to come, as reported by AFP. Their major issue is that, in comparison to university graduates, unskilled people who frequently toil in physically taxing jobs and start their careers early are being penalised by the reforms. A cyclist passes by a banner that reads, ' Retirement at... raise fist strike, blockage, Macron get out' during protests in Montpellier, southern France on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP They also dispute the government's claim that the pay-as-you-go pension system faces impending deficits, arguing that modest increases in contributions may prevent this from happening. The unions have the support of both the Socialists and Greens as well as the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) political party, which wants to cut the retirement age to 60. In addition to opposing the reform, Marine Le Pen's far-right party is also troubled by proposals to impose rolling strikes in France. A host of left-wing scholars have also voiced disapproval, particularly famous economist Thomas Piketty, who views Macron as strengthening his reputation as "the president of the rich," as per AFP reports. How do the strikes affect Macron? During his first term, Macron attempted to advance pension reform but was unsuccessful. In April, during his re-election campaign, Macron brought up the subject once more. Running on a similar pro-business platform, he beat Le Pen by promising to reduce unemployment and force the French to "work harder" in order to pay for the nation's social security system. Political experts disagree, though, and Macron himself conceded in his victory speech that many people had supported him just to protect Le Pen from winning the presidency. CGT unionists take part in a demonstration on the Vieux Port (Old Harbour) in Marseille on March 7, 2023. Photo credits: AFP The 45-year-old has moved forward despite concerns from allies about the timing of the change so soon after the COVID-19 outbreak and in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. "For Emmanuel Macron, pulling back would be an abdication," senior right-wing senator Bruno Retailleau, who supports the reform, told AFP. "If he pulled back, he couldn't reform anymore, his term would be over," he added. Are these protests common in France? Since reforms occur in France without opposition, the administration is bracing itself for a rough road since the onset of the protests. The labour movement's accomplishments over the past century are viewed by left-wingers as being under attack whenever there is an attempt to limit workers' rights, whether it be through reduced working hours, generous pensions, or protected employment contracts. The 2010 demonstrations, when right-wing president Nicolas Sarkozy increased the retirement age from 60 to 62, may end up being eclipsed by the current ones. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos on social media. 🤬🇫🇷 Police throw TEAR GAS at protesters as they block highways and trucks all across France, just the beginning of full-scale demonstrations in country expected today, March 7, over government’s pension reform. pic.twitter.com/4MYdxZLzNq — Truthseeker (@Xx17965797N) March 7, 2023 × They surpass those of 1995, when the government was compelled to do the infamous U-turn on pensions, and are also larger. The emergence of working from home and modern technologies has lessened interruptions, so the impact of Tuesday's stoppages is different. What to expect next? The government's plan is simple: push the law through parliament as quickly as possible and win approval by the middle of this month, or at the latest by March 26, as examined by AFP. Macron's centrist party does not currently hold a majority in the National Assembly, but it should be able to rely on support from the right-wing Republican party to gain the required majorities in both houses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: It is Macron vs. labour unions, what could be the implications of these strikes for France?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

WION Speed News | France: Day of protests against pension reforms

Industrial action in France over the government's planned pensions overhaul will cause heavy disruption to public transport again on Tuesday, the transport minister and several public transport authorities said on Sunday.

France braces for Pension Reform strikes

French president Emmanuel Macron had an argument with the Democratic Republic of Congo president while he was on a visit to the nation. The argument took place when Congo president reminded his French counterpart about his country's involvement in the 1994 genocide however macron bluntly rejected the blame attributed to France.

Macron to DRC Prez: You have not been able to restore sovereignty

French President Emmanuel Macron is on his last-leg of African tour. During talks with the leaders of Angola, DRC and Rwanda, Emmanuel Macron has stated that all parties in the conflict zone of Eastern Africa have agreed for a ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

French President Emmanuel Macron lauds 'ceasefire' in Eastern Africa

French President Emmanuel Macron now says that the era of French interference in Africa was over. The President was on a four-nation African tour of the continent.

French President Emmanuel Macron returns on a four-nation African tour

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