The Social Affairs Committee of the National Assembly adopted a proposed law to repeal the pension reform. This initiative, supported by La France insoumise (LFI), marks a turning point in the debate on the future of the French pension system. The text, which will be examined in a public session on November 28, proposes to return to the controversial measures adopted under the government of Elisabeth Borne.
A symbolic victory for the left
The committee vote, which took place on November 20, 2024, saw the proposal approved by 35 votes to 16. This result testifies to an unexpected alliance between the left and the National Rally (RN), in the face of opposition from the center and the right. Ugo Bernalicis, LFI deputy and rapporteur of the text, described the 2023 reform as “unjust democratically and socially, and economically ineffective”.
This adoption in committee represents a first significant step in the left's desire to repeal the pension reform. It also illustrates the ability of opposition parties to unite on certain subjects, despite their ideological differences. The RN deputy Thomas Ménage also underlined this convergence by declaring: “It is the same [texte] than ours, and we are not sectarian.”
The main provisions of the text
The bill adopted in committee aims to:
- Reduce the legal retirement age from 64 to 62
- Reduce the contribution period from 43 to 42 years
- Repeal the Touraine reform of 2013
These measures constitute a significant step back compared to the successive reforms carried out in recent years. They raise questions about the financial viability of the pension system and on the long-term economic consequences.
An amendment proposed by the Liot group aimed at preserving the Touraine reform was rejected, illustrating the desire of the left to go beyond a simple repeal of the 2023 reform. The socialists, although favorable to the conservation of the 2013 reform, ultimately chose to support the overall text.
Parliamentary strategy and perspectives
The left displays its determination to carry this repeal proposal through to its conclusion. An ambitious timetable has been established:
- Examination of the text in the hemicycle on November 28, 2024
- Inscription on the Senate agenda on January 23, 2025 (communist niche)
- Second reading in the National Assembly on February 6, 2025 (ecological niche)
This strategy demonstrates increased coordination between the different components of the parliamentary left. It highlights their desire to maintain pressure on the government and to capitalize on the social discontent caused by the pension reform.
Reactions and political issues
The adoption of this bill in committee sparked contrasting reactions. Representatives of the government coalition strongly criticized the text, calling it “not serious” and “irresponsible”. Macronist MP Stéphanie Rist notably warned of the potential consequences: “We must be honest with the French: if this reform is repealed, of course they will be able to leave at 60, but with a much lower pension” .
This parliamentary initiative takes place in a tense political context, marked by legal cases involving members of the government and a questioning of certain institutions. It raises the question of the stability of reforms and the capacity of the French political system to carry out lasting structural changes.
| Pour | Against |
|---|---|
| Social justice | Financial viability |
| Response to popular expectations | Stability of reforms |
| Retirement flexibility | Economic competitiveness |
The adoption of this bill in committee thus marks a new phase in the debate on pensions in France. It highlights the deep divisions that persist on this subject and announces lively parliamentary debates in the weeks to come.
