In France the poverty rate among those older than 65 is less than 5 percent, largely because of the pension system, while in the United States it approaches 20 percent, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. In France, life expectancy is increasing, while in the United States it is diminishing in significant sectors of the population. With public opinion behind the strikers, and the unions emboldened by their success, the margin for maneuvering by the government appears limited. Mr. Macron’s political learning on the job has not helped. “We absolutely must remove the uncertainties for the French, that this reform won’t have a negative impact on their pensions,” said Benoît Simian, a member of Parliament from Mr. Macron’s party who represents an area around Bordeaux.

Source: International New York Times December 09, 2019 22:30 UTC