The fog of tear gas was again choked the boulevards in central Paris.
It’s evident that this is a serious crisis for President Macron’s government.
As part of rolling demonstrations organized by the unions, tens of thousands marched down the streets.
They soon became involved in running fights with the police.
France pension protests – Paris descends into violence – latest
Although it may have been only the hardcore who took part in the clashes; the fury is indicative of a national anger.
Some protestors hurled bottles while others spray anti-government graffiti on the walls. As the crowds chanted “everyone hates police”, others shouted slogans.
Of course, President Macron knew that he was in for a wild ride with his pension reforms. He’s made this policy a legacy issue in his second term.
He’s reached a nerve with the majority of the working population by raising the retirement age to 64 from 62.
Minimum 70% of the country opposes the legislation. It was forced through special constitutional powers that bypass parliament.
The government believes reform is required.
It’s been claimed that the current system is not affordable due to an ageing population. However, those arguments are ignored by the people.
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Demonstrators claim that Mr Macron is out-of-touch and only cares for the rich. Someone with such monarchical zeal will not be allowed to lead the fifth republic.
It is difficult to predict what will happen next.
While the Elysee Palace hopes that the wave of protests will recede, it is possible for the chaos and strike to gain even more momentum and continue for months.
This is a major distraction for France, and the European Union.
The republic is arguing with itself about how long it should work, at a time when its attention should be on the cost-of-living, Ukraine, and the climate emergency.
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