Macron Doubles Down on Plans to Reform Pensions

French President Emmanuel Macron remains defiant amid protests over his decision to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64. Despite surviving no-confidence votes, Macron faces public discontent and is seeking ways to appease workers. Protests led by unions have not significantly swayed public or government opinion. The garbage collection issue in Paris, exacerbated by strikes, poses a challenge ahead of King Charles III's state visit. The unions aim to maintain control over the protests, avoiding the violence seen in the 2019 Yellow Vest movement.

What was the main reason behind President Macron's decision to raise the retirement age?

• To increase his chances of reelection

• To align with international retirement standards

• To prioritize the country's general interests

• To reduce government spending

How did the unions respond to the pension reform?

• They supported the reform

• They proposed an alternative reform

• They organized large protests

• They remained neutral

What was the impact of the protests on the government's stance?

• The government increased the retirement age further

• The government reversed the reform

• The government postponed the reform

• The government remained unchanged

What was the government's response to the garbage piling up in Paris?

• They reduced garbage collection

• They outsourced garbage collection to private companies

• They increased garbage collection efforts

• They ignored the issue

Why is the garbage issue particularly concerning for the French government?

• It affects tourism revenue

• It is a minor inconvenience

• It poses a public health risk

• It is unrelated to the protests