Gradual retirement: what is it and who is it for?
Gradual retirement allows employees to reduce their working time while receiving a fraction of their retirement pension. Today, this system is open to people with at least 60 ans and having contributed 150 quarters. It offers seniors the opportunity to remain active while beginning their retirement.
The main attraction of phased retirement is the flexibility that it provides. Employees can adapt their work schedule to their state of health and personal preferences, while preserving part of their income.
The employers' proposal: major changes to be expected
The employers presented the unions with a proposed agreement planning to make progressive retirement accessible from 60 anseven with the increase in the legal age of departure to 64 years. This measure might seem advantageous, but it comes with conditions that spark debate.
The controversial point: the role of the employer
According to the proposal, the retirement contributions of employees in progressive retirement would be calculated on the basis of a full-time equivalent salarybut only subject to the agreement of the employer.
This clause poses a problem for unions, who denounce the risk of arbitrariness. They demand that progressive retirement become a enforceable rightthat is to say a right that the employer could not refuse.
Impact on the employees
If this measure were to be adopted, it would allow seniors to maintain their purchasing power and improve their future pension, because contributions would be calculated as if they were working full time. However, the necessary agreement from the employer can limit access to this benefit, which worries many employees.
An interview of mid-career strengthened
The employers' proposal also includes strengthening themid-career interview. Expected at the age of 45 ansthis interview would aim to better prepare the employee for the end of their career. It would cover various aspects such as:
- Skills current and future of the employee,
- The needs in formation,
- THE mobility wishes professional,
- The measurements of prevention of occupational wear and tear.
This initiative aims to maintain the employability of seniors and prevent early exit from the labor market.
The experience promotion contract: a lever for the employment of seniors
To stimulate the recruitment of older unemployedthe employers propose the creation of a experience promotion contract. This contract would make it possible to compensate for loss of salary compared to the previous job, using the employee's unemployment rights. However, this measure includes the possibility for the employer to automatically retire the employee as soon as he can leave. full rateraising questions about job security.
Why the proposal Does it divide so much?
The employers' proposal is part of a context where the employment of seniors is already a sensitive subject. If the expansion of access to progressive retirement is welcomed by some, the fact that the employer's agreement is necessary for full contributions raises fears.
The unions fear that this measure will leave too much power to employers and limits employee autonomy.
An uncertain future for this reform
The employers' proposal on gradual retirement could represent a step forward for some, allowing a better transition between employment and retirement. However, controversial points, such as employer agreement and end-of-career management, must be clarified to ensure that this system remains fair and beneficial for all.
Negotiations between social partners between now and mid-November will be decisive for the future of senior employment and the reform of progressive retirement.
