Pension Reform: François Bayrou Launches Talks Amid Deep Divisions

An Inaugural Meeting to Define the Framework
On Friday morning, François Bayrou brought together social partners (unions and employers’ representatives) at the Ministry of Labor to kick off consultations on pension reform. The meeting aimed to establish the framework and methodology for the upcoming discussions. Initially threatened with cancellation due to scheduling issues, the meeting ultimately took place as planned.

The Prime Minister set an ambitious goal: reaching an agreement with social partners by the end of May. “I trust in the responsibility of social dialogue, which is a better way to prepare for the future than confrontation,” said François Bayrou.

The CGT Highlights Major Disagreements
Following the meeting, Sophie Binet, Secretary General of the CGT, highlighted the extent of the disagreements, particularly with employers’ representatives. She reiterated the unions’ opposition to the legal retirement age being set at 64, calling the measure “devastating.” According to her, “the pensions of public sector workers must be funded by the state,” adding that deficits are exacerbated by declining public sector wages, which have dropped by 18% since 2010.

The CFDT Demands Adjustments
Marylise Léon, head of the CFDT, also emphasized the need for changes to the legal retirement age. She stressed that discussions on job strain and gender equality are essential. “64 is a no-go,” she declared, while expressing optimism about the framework established during this initial meeting.

A Key Report Expected in February
The government has tasked the Court of Auditors with providing a precise assessment of the pension system’s financial state. François Bayrou announced that the report will be delivered on February 19, offering critical insights to guide the reform discussions.

A Politically Tense Context
This kickoff takes place in a politically challenging environment for François Bayrou. On Thursday, he narrowly avoided a no-confidence vote brought by La France Insoumise following his general policy statement. The motion garnered only 131 votes, far short of the 288 required. However, Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure warned that another motion could be tabled “if the debate is stifled” on this sensitive reform.

Towards a Points-Based Reform?
François Bayrou also expressed his support for a points-based reform, describing it as “a more flexible solution” that he believes “will prevail someday.” However, he acknowledged that reaching consensus on this issue would take time.