“Of course, we know that labor laws are not the primary cause of unemployment in France,” Mr. Philippe said. The overhaul to the vast and complicated labor code is only part of a broader effort, and the government is working on more contentious changes, including budget cuts and modifications to the pension and unemployment systems. “All studies show that there is no relationship between collective rights and the fight against unemployment,” Mr. Martinez said. Mr. Hollande passed changes to loosen the French labor code last year, despite weeks of street protests that sometimes turned violent and that pushed the government to dilute the overhaul. Other more moderate unions have also indicated that they are open to compromise with Mr. Macron.

Source: New York Times August 31, 2017 10:50 UTC