French PM Backs Freezing Macron's Pension Reform to Save Government
PARIS — French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Tuesday that he supports suspending the 2023 pension reforms, a move aimed at saving his government from collapse. The decision comes two days before crucial votes of no-confidence in parliament.
Lecornu told lawmakers that he will propose to parliament to suspend the 2023 pension reform until the 2027 presidential election, sparking applause from left-wing parties. "This autumn I will propose to parliament that we suspend the 2023 pension reform until the 2027 presidential election," Lecornu said.
The reforms, which raised the retirement age from 62 to 64, were a signature policy of President Emmanuel Macron's presidency. The changes have been met with widespread criticism and protests across France.
Lecornu's decision is seen as an attempt to appease opposition parties on the far left and far right, who have called for confidence votes in his government. Socialist MPs, who hold the balance of power in parliament, said they would support Lecornu's government if it promises a complete suspension of Macron's pension reforms.
"This is a crucial moment for our country," said Olivier Faure, leader of the Socialist Party. "We will not vote against the government if it commits to suspending the 2023 pension reform."
The opposition parties have called for parliamentary elections, citing the need for a fresh mandate from voters. However, Lecornu's decision may buy him some time and potentially save his government.
Background on the issue shows that Macron's pension reforms were introduced in 2023 as part of his broader efforts to modernize France's social security system. The changes aimed to address the country's aging population and ensure the long-term sustainability of its pension system.
However, critics argue that the reforms disproportionately affect low-income workers and exacerbate social inequality. Protests against the reforms have been ongoing since their introduction, with thousands taking to the streets across France.
The current status is that Lecornu's government faces votes of no-confidence on Thursday morning, and his decision to suspend the pension reform may influence the outcome. If the opposition parties succeed in passing a censure motion, it could lead to fresh parliamentary elections.
In conclusion, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's decision to support suspending Macron's pension reforms is seen as an attempt to save his government from collapse. The move has sparked debate and controversy, with some arguing that it may address the concerns of opposition parties while others see it as a concession to special interests.
Attributions:
Olivier Faure, leader of the Socialist Party
Sébastien Lecornu, French Prime Minister
*Reporting by Bbc.*
