France: the heavyweights of the majority gathered around Macron in search of a way out of the crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron pictured at the Élysée Palace in Paris on March 24, 2023. © AP - Thomas Padilla

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On the eve of a tenth day of mobilization against the pension reform and after the violent clashes in Sainte-Soline on Saturday, Emmanuel Macron brings together this Monday at midday a part of his government and the leaders of the majority at the Elysee. The French president is looking for a way out of the crisis, while the protest is gaining momentum. The executive is out of ideas to calm the anger.

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Red carpet, walk down the Champs-Élysées and dine at the Palace of Versailles with King Charles III. This is what Emmanuel Macron's day should have looked like.

But instead, the head of state summons the heavyweights of his camp for a crisis meeting. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne, François Bayrou and Édouard Philippe will be there.

And all good ideas are welcome. Because the executive is taken aback by social anger. The television interview of the head of state on Wednesday did not slow down the mobilization of opponents.

On the contrary, there were even more people on the streets last Thursday.

So of course, waiting a month and the decision of the Constitutional Council on the reform, as planned by the President of the Republic, is no longer possible.

His agenda is empty, all his time devoted to the crisis.

With his back to the wall, Mr. Macron must review his copy and find a new strategy. Rapid resuming of dialogue with trade unions is essential to reduce tension in the country.

Do everything to quickly regain control.

For her part, Ms. Borne says she is ready to receive the unions. The Prime Minister will also launch consultations the week of 3 April with parliamentary groups and political parties.

►Read also: France: more than 49.3 outside the financial texts, hopes Elisabeth Borne

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Read on on the same topics:

  • France
  • Elisabeth Borne
  • Social issues
  • Emmanuel Macron
  • François Bayrou
  • Édouard Philippe
  • Unions