France's leading labor union, the CFDT, has laid out its demands for amending the controversial pension reform implemented this year, targeting the planned increase of the retirement age from 62 to 64. At a press conference held on January 28, 2025, Secretary General Marylise Léon stated, "Our priority is obtaining movement on the legal retirement age," pointing to the organization’s firm stance against the reform.
With reform supporters arguing the age increase is necessary to maintain pension system sustainability, Léon and the CFDT are instead pushing for the reinstatement of the previous legal age. "The slogan '64 years is no' has not aged at all," Léon declared, amplifying the union's commitment to reverse the legal age change.
At the heart of CFDT's proposed amendments also lies the call for recognizing the specific hardships associated with certain jobs. Léon underscored how the current pension system does not adequately address the challenges faced by professions such as nursing and construction. She noted, "The work damages the body," highlighting the need for policy alterations to support workers whose jobs impose heightened physical demands.
Another significant aspect of the CFDT's campaign involves rectifying the gender disparities intensified by the 2023 reform. Léon pointed out how the shift affects women disproportionately, asserting, "The age escalation erases the benefits women had for maternity leaves and the bonuses available after age 62." This concern emphasizes the CFDT's broader goal of achieving gender equity within pension policies.
The CFDT's demands were outlined formally through what Léon termed as "a framework letter" directed at stakeholders involved in upcoming negotiations. This document serves to set forth the union's expectations for the discussions, which must be conducted "with loyalty and sincerity." Ensuring transparent communication among all parties was another cornerstone of the union's strategy.
Aside from advocating for returning the retirement age to 62, the CFDT also seeks to reintegrate specific occupational hardship criteria previously excluded from early retirement eligibility. Léon asserted, "Four hardship situations need to be brought back, which currently account for 90% of occupational disease declarations." By reinstatement, the union aims to provide greater security and support for workers faced with these conditions.
The CFDT maintains its position of seeking exclusive and separate discussions on the pensions of public sector employees, emphasizing the need for clarity and distinction from private sector schemes. Léon remarked, "Our organization will not engage if the financial diagnosis integrates the notion of hidden deficit introduced by the government." This assertion reflects the union's resistance to government claims about the pension system’s financial stability.
Looking forward, discussions between employers and unions, facilitated by former Agirc-Arrco director Jean-Jacques Marette, are set to take place. The negotiations, anticipated to span three months, aim to produce results by the end of May. Any agreements reached will require parliamentary approval to amend the reform of 2023.
The outcome of these discussions hinges largely on the financial analysis expected from the Cour des Comptes on February 19, 2025. It will assess the pension system’s financial health, setting the stage for negotiations to determine the future of France's pension reform.
While CFDT has affirmed its commitment to the fight against the age increase, it is also conscious of the financial realities confronting the pension system. Léon highlighted potential solutions such as encouraging more seniors to remain active in the workforce, which could bolster pension contributions.
Union officials remain optimistic but cautious, knowing the discussions could confront substantial systemic issues. With solidarity among labor groups, CFDT is hopeful it can leverage collective strength to effect change.
Though the challenges are significant, Léon's statements suggest renewed energy among unions to address not only pension reform but also broader issues surrounding workplace conditions and gender equality. The outcome of the negotiations over the next few months could reshape the future of retirement for many French workers.