French President Emmanuel Macron’s pension reforms are being opposed nationwide, and demonstrations started from Wednesday, December 4 itself. The government has increased security in Paris and surrounding cities, and the railways, traffic, schools, colleges, underground trains, markets, and offices have been closed in view of the protests. People have described the change in the pension provisions of Macron as being very expensive and biased.
The French President wants to have a single pension system for everyone and looked to implement a ‘universal’ pension system. This will supposedly give every pensioner equal rights, and he had also promised this during his election campaign. Whereas, trade unions say that after the proposed reform, lakhs of people working in private and public sectors will have to work even after the legal age of retirement to get a full pension of 62 years.
Strike May Continue For A Few Days: Media
According to local media, the next few days could be decisive for Macron. Rail services in the country have come to a standstill, 82% of the drivers are on strike and at least 90% of the regional trains have been canceled. According to the media, the strike may continue further. Also, 11 of the 16 metro lines in Paris have been closed. For this reason, passengers are having to rent bikes and scooters.
About 5 Lakh Teachers Involved In The Strike
Many schools have also been closed. According to reports, more than 5 lakh teachers are also involved in the strike. Even some police unions have apparently ‘warned‘ of ‘symbolically’ closing some police stations. The roadside shops have been asked to remain closed due to the protests. Nearly half of the Eurostar trains running between Paris and London have been canceled. Tourists have been prohibited from going to the Eiffel Tower.
featured image source: TheLocalfr