2010: The Battle Over Retirement

The 2010 protests against raising the retirement age from 60 to 62 mobilized millions in a fight that went beyond simple economics to fundamental values about life's purpose. For many French, retirement at 60 represented a civilizational achievement, distinguishing their society from Anglo-Saxon workaholism.

The movement united diverse constituencies. High school students, decades from retirement, joined strikes arguing for their future rights. The slogan "Metro, boulot, dodo, c'est fini à 60" (Commute, work, sleep, it's over at 60) expressed desires for meaningful life beyond labor.

Despite massive mobilization—some demonstrations included over 3 million participants—the reform passed. This defeat led to strategic debates within French unionism. Traditional strike tactics seemed less effective against determined governments willing to wait out disruptions. Some unions began exploring new forms of action, including targeted blockades and rolling strikes designed to maximize pressure while minimizing striker hardship.