Part 4/13:
France's social security and pension system are critically underfunded, with current estimates predicting a deficit of €1.7 billion in 2025, potentially escalating to €6.6 billion by 2030. The core issue is the impending insolvency of the pension fund—predicted to be exhausted within five years if measures are not taken.
The government's proposed solution—to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64—has ignited widespread protests, many of which are led by pensioners themselves who benefit from the system. Surprisingly, many young protesters, driven by misinformation or superficial grievances, oppose these reforms, unaware that they are essential for the system's survival. The disconnect reflects a broader societal failure to grasp the economic realities facing France.