In the debate on pensions in France, the retirement age is currently one of the most hotly debated and controversial issues. It undoubtedly forms a major part of the discussions between the social partners within the framework of the permanent joint delegation (the ‘conclave’) set up a few weeks ago – and which some organisations have since left – as it was largely due to the trade unions’ continued strong opposition to raising the retirement age – as set out in the latest pension reform – that this committee was established.
The criticism of the reform is well known. It is usually put as follows: because it raises the minimum age for entitlement from 62 to 64, this reform would primarily affect those pensioners who retire earliest, that is to say, those with little or no formal education, who therefore started working earlier and, for that reason, reach the required contribution period at a younger age. It would thus place a greater burden on those with fewer qualifications and lower skills than on those who have pursued longer courses of study. For this reason, it would be socially unjust.
It is also recognised, however, that this line of argument is tenuous and must be treated with caution
What is the retirement age for each profession?
Reference IPP Blog Post No. 41
