I am a journalist for more than 26 years and specializes in politics, foreign affairs, defense and national security issues.

MUP pension scheme tops agenda in ‘Gibo’s’ 1st conference with AFP

21 Jun 2023  |  businessmirror.com.ph  |  English  |  Military Pension Reform

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. led his first joint command conference with the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, focusing on current issues, plans, and the proposed reform to the military and uniformed personnel pension scheme. The proposal for uniformed personnel to contribute to their pensions, which currently are fully funded by the government, was a key topic. The conference also covered AFP operations, modernization programs, and legislative proposals, with Teodoro emphasizing the importance of maintaining open communication lines.

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Military Pension Reform Defense Policy

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Claude Arpi is a writer based in Auroville near Puducherry, India.

Twenty-five Years of Partnership: Indo-French Relations and the Missed Opportunity

13 Apr 2023  |  Firstpost  |  English  |  Pension Reform

The article discusses the 25th anniversary of the Indo-French Strategic Partnership, highlighting the historical visits of leaders from both countries and the establishment of various bilateral cooperation frameworks. It notes France's supportive stance during India's nuclear tests in 1998 and the evolution of the partnership over the years. The article also critiques French President Emmanuel Macron's recent decision to visit China over India, suggesting it was a missed opportunity to strengthen the longstanding partnership with India. Macron's visit to China is portrayed as controversial, with criticism from former US President Donald Trump and skepticism from The New York Times regarding Macron's international strategy. The article concludes by mentioning the continued growth of the France-India relationship and the potential for future defense deals, while implying that Macron's advisors may have miscalculated the benefits of prioritizing China over India.

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Pension Reform Foreign Relations Strategic Partnership Nuclear Deal Defense Cooperation Terrorism Economic Cooperation Diplomacy International Politics

Mindaugas Ausra is a journalist based in Vilnius, Lithuania. He has been working in news media organizations for more than 6 years. At the moment he is a TV producer and business reporter in the National Broadcaster LRT.

Will proposals for second pillar accumulation free people from 'imprisonment' in pension funds?

05 Oct 2023  |  Lietuvos Radijas ir Televizija  |  Lithuanian  |  Pension Reform

The Lithuanian government, guided by the Constitutional Court, has proposed reforms to the second pillar pension system, allowing participants to pause contributions for two years every decade and offering more flexibility in withdrawing funds upon retirement. Critics argue these changes are insufficient and do not address the core issues of feeling 'imprisoned' in pension funds. The Ministry of Social Security and Labour acknowledges public dissatisfaction and suggests alternative savings methods. The debate highlights differing views on mandatory participation and the impact on pension size, with comparisons to Latvia's system. The article features opinions from various stakeholders, including government advisors and pension fund representatives.

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Pension Reform Social Security

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Michele Barbero is a senior journalist from Italy based in Paris. Excellent knowledge of Western politics, with particular focus on France, Italy, and Brussels. Available for articles (news or features) and for live hits (tv and radio).

To Save His Pension Reform Bill, Macron Has Lost France

24 Mar 2023  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Pension Reform

French President Emmanuel Macron faces a severe political crisis after forcing through an unpopular pension reform bill without a final vote by the National Assembly. The reform, which raises the retirement age from 62 to 64, has sparked widespread protests and strikes, disrupting daily life in France. Macron's use of Article 49.3 of the French Constitution to bypass the vote has been criticized as authoritarian, and his approval rating has plummeted. The crisis has also affected Macron's international standing, leading to the postponement of a state visit by Britain's King Charles III. The political turmoil is benefiting extremist leaders like Marine Le Pen and could impact centrist parties in the upcoming European Parliament elections. Despite the challenges, Macron remains determined to push through his reforms, although his approach has alienated many and raised questions about his political legitimacy.

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Pension Reform Protests Political Crisis

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Jose Bautista is a journalist based in Brisbane City, Australia. He has worked as journalist and foreign correspondent for Spanish news agency EFE, Agence France Presse (AFP), Chinese news agency Xinhua, Spanish news agency Europa Press (EP) and Deutsche Presse Agentur (DPA) in Colombia, Venezuela ...

Pension Payments: Mexico's Biggest Financial Problem

15 Jan 2024  |  elheraldodesaltillo.mx  |  Spanish  |  Pension Reform

During the 107th Anniversary of the Promulgation of the 1917 Constitution, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador will present a reform package aimed at improving population incomes and processes in justice and democracy. The reforms include ensuring workers receive a full pension equivalent to their pre-retirement salary. The government will increase its contributions to address the damage caused in previous administrations. Actuary Francisco Miguel Aguirre Farías, a leading pension expert in Latin America, suggests that pension payments are a significant financial issue in Mexico. He advocates for a general pension law to regulate public pension systems and the creation of a national pension institute or a social security secretariat to oversee these reforms.

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Pension Reform Financial Issues Social Welfare

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Chris Bockman is a freelance journalist based in Toulouse, France.
Moderator/journalist
Provide audio and tv coverage for BBC News and France 24 
Newsgathering and live standups 
Host many events as moderator mainly in aerospace and innovation sector

Aurélien Pradié: The rising star shaking up French politics

06 Apr 2023  |  BBC  |  English  |  Pension Reforms

Aurélien Pradié, a 37-year-old MP from the Lot region, has rapidly ascended in French politics by opposing President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform. His defiance against his own Les Républicains party and the government's controversial use of constitutional powers has garnered him significant attention. Pradié's grassroots approach and strong local connections have bolstered his popularity, though he faces criticism from opponents who view him as opportunistic. His future ambitions include potentially running for the presidency, aiming to reconnect the right with the working and middle classes.

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Pension Reforms French Politics Political Leadership

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Călin Căciuleanu is a freelance journalist whose long-form work has most recently appeared in Panorama.ro and PressOne. He has over three years experience in covering labour and the economy for Ziare.com and writing financial crime-oriented news articles and features for the UK-based Financial ...

The government jumps from the frying pan into the fire. Why the pension reform brought workers to the streets. 'For at least five years you won't benefit from anything, you might as well die'

18 Sept 2023  |  Ziare.com  |  Romanian  |  Pension Reform

The new pension reform in Romania, aimed at reducing social inequalities, has sparked protests among heavy industry workers. Despite assurances that no pensions would decrease, workers claim the reform results in frozen incomes for several years. Protests organized by the Federation of Metallurgists Metarom and Cartel Alfa highlight grievances over unfair recalculations and the financial burden of legal challenges. The reform affects over 160,000 pensioners, with pensions not keeping pace with inflation. Union representatives argue the reform is unjust, particularly for those who worked in hazardous conditions, and call for changes to the legislation.

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Pension Reform Worker Protests Social Inequality

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Victor Castillo is an independent television news reporter, field producer, camera man and editor based in McAllen, Texas United States of America. He specializes on immigration, drug trafficking and national security issues. He is bilingual (English/Spanish) and can work on both sides of the US-...

Colombia between reforms

27 Apr 2024  |  www.vanguardia.com  |  Spanish  |  Healthcare Reform

Colombia is undergoing significant reforms, including healthcare and pension changes. The healthcare system has faced chronic issues, leading to a new, more compact reform proposal. The pension reform has passed the Senate but awaits further debates. Political protests against President Gustavo Petro highlight the need for dialogue. The Ministry of Health's draft tariff manual faced backlash, and there is uncertainty about the new healthcare model for teachers. These developments are crucial for the country's future, aiming for a more equitable society.

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Pension Reform Healthcare Reform Political Protests

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Megan Clement is a journalist and editor specialising in gender, human rights, cities, international development and social policy. She also writes about Paris, where she has lived since 2015. Her reporting has appeared in The Guardian, The Sydney Morning Herald, Bloomberg, Al Jazeera, The New ...

France’s fiery fury at pension reform a sign of country’s ‘democratic deficit’

27 Mar 2023  |  Crikey  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Mass protests in France against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform, which raises the retirement age from 62 to 64, have led to significant public unrest and the cancellation of King Charles III's state visit. The reform disproportionately affects blue-collar workers and women, leading to widespread strikes and public support for the protests. Macron's use of article 49.3 to bypass a parliamentary vote has exacerbated public anger, highlighting a democratic deficit in French politics. The Council of Europe has condemned the police's excessive force in handling the protests.

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Pension Reform Protests French Politics

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Elaine Cobbe is a seasoned print and broadcast journalist based in Paris, France.
She is also a journalism trainer, and specialises in Journalism and Trauma - she is the France Country Contact for the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma.

King Charles III visit to France delayed by protests as anger mounts over Macron's pension reforms

24 Mar 2023  |  www.cbsnews.com  |  English  |  Pension Reforms

Massive protests against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms in France have led to the postponement of King Charles III's first state visit. The visit was scheduled for March 26-29, including a stop in Bordeaux, which has seen significant unrest. The French presidency announced the delay after labor unions called for a strike on the day of the planned Bordeaux visit. Macron intends to proceed with the reforms, set to begin in September, despite ongoing protests since January. The reforms, raising the retirement age and requiring a longer work period for a full pension, have particularly angered women. The bill is currently under review by the Constitutional Council.

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Pension Reforms Protests State Visit

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Multilingual journalist with over 10 years of experience working for media outlets such as Agencia EFE (Spain), Channel News Asia (Singapore), Caracol (Colombia), and TRT (Turkey). Covered several wars, multiple elections, and two football World Cups.

Now based in Buenos Aires after working for ...

The Argentine Congress validates Milei's veto on pension increases amid new protests

11 Sept 2024  |  www.elmundo.es  |  Spanish  |  Pension Reform

Javier Milei's government secured a political victory by maintaining a veto on pension reform in Argentina, despite protests and opposition. The veto, upheld by the Cámara de Diputados, prevents a law that would have increased pensions, citing fiscal concerns. The decision sparked protests in Buenos Aires, with demonstrators criticizing the government's economic policies and the use of force by security forces. The economic crisis in Argentina, marked by high inflation, exacerbates the situation for pensioners, many of whom receive minimal pensions.

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Pension Reform Protests in Argentina

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I am a bilingual (French/English) journalist/radio producer/audio editor based in Paris. I have extensive experience producing radio news and features from A-Z (research, reporting, writing, voicing, editing, mixing). Currently working as a journalist for the English service of Radio France ...

What is the Constitutional Council and can it strike down France's pensions bill?

13 Apr 2023  |  RFI  |  English  |  Pension Reform

The Constitutional Council, a body created by the 1958 constitution to act as a check on legislators and the president, is set to rule on the constitutionality of France's pension reform bill and the process through which it was passed. The council, which can strike down unconstitutional legislation, is also considering a request for a referendum on the retirement age. The decision, expected by mid-April, could either uphold, reject, or partially strike down the bill. The outcome may force the government to negotiate with trade unions and address the public's discontent, potentially leading to a resolution of the ongoing crisis.

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Pension Reform French Politics Constitutional Law

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Juan Fernandez is a journalist based in A Coruña, Spain.
Find more about him at **** or ****

Podemos considers rejecting Sánchez's decree on unemployment subsidy reform in Congress

07 Jan 2024  |  www.levante-emv.com  |  Spanish  |  Pension Reform

The Spanish government faces challenges in securing votes for a decree reforming the unemployment subsidy, with Podemos considering rejection unless changes are made to protect pensions for those over 52. The decree aims to increase the subsidy and make it compatible with work for the first 180 days. The potential opposition from both Podemos and Junts could lead to a significant defeat for the government, highlighting concerns about its stability.

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Pension Reform Politics Unemployment

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Tim Gosling is a journalist, editor and analyst based in the Czech Republic. He covers politics, business, current affairs and football across Central & Eastern Europe. Regular bylines for Al Jazeera, Deutsche Welle, Foreign Policy, Politico, The Times. He provides political and economic analysis ...

Pensions and Protests in Central Europe: Different Strokes for Different Folks

31 May 2023  |  Balkan Insight  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Central European countries are grappling with pension reforms amidst economic challenges and political unrest. In Czechia, the government’s austerity measures and pension reforms have sparked protests and opposition, while the affluent middle class remains supportive. Slovakia faces increasing poverty among pensioners, prompting legislative changes and cooperation with far-right parties. Hungary and Poland's nationalist-populist governments avoid pension reforms, opting for financial incentives to maintain support among the elderly. The political landscape is marked by economic discontent, populist opposition, and the strategic courting of pensioners by ruling parties.

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Pension Reform Protests Economic Policy

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Xave Gregorio is a journalist based in Las Pinas, Philippines. He graduated with honors from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) with a degree in Journalism. With his prior experience as Editor in Chief of TomasinoWeb, the official digital media organization of the UST, he is skilled in multimedia ...

AFP chief Centino leaves pension reform fate to Congress

18 May 2023  |  www.philstar.com  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Andres Centino has deferred the decision on military and uniformed personnel pension reforms to Congress. He emphasized the importance of continuing their duties while being well-compensated. Defense officer-in-charge Carlito Galvez Jr. supports pension reform but stresses the need to consider soldiers' morale. Economic managers propose contributions from all active and new recruits, with pensions starting at age 57. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno warns the current system is unsustainable. The reform bills are pending in the House and Senate, with Senate defense committee chairperson Jinggoy Estrada urging coordination between uniformed services and economic managers.

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Pension Reform Military Politics

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Alison Hird is a journalist based in Paris, France.

Trade Unions

11 May 2023  |  RFI  |  English  |  Pension Reform

The article discusses the paradox of French trade unions' influence despite low membership, highlighting their ability to mobilize large-scale strikes against pension reforms. French unions, particularly CGT and CFDT, benefit from collective bargaining agreements covering most workers and receive state funding. They are politically independent, with historical ties to political parties. Unions facilitate strikes by compensating lost wages, with various funding methods including online fundraising. Despite their efforts, they could not prevent the pension reform from becoming law. The unions showed unity in opposing the reform, gaining public support and credibility. The CGT and CFDT have seen membership increases since the protests. The government is now engaging in negotiations with the unions, though tensions remain, especially with the CGT's demand to withdraw the pension reform.

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Pension Reform Trade Unions Strike Action Labor Movement

**Available for EU CoronaVirus coverage from home studio**

Dave Keating is an American journalist covering European politics. Having previously covered US politics in Washington, Dave specializes in drawing comparisons between the American federal system and the European Union.

Dave has ...

Macron Plays for Time as France Burns

23 Mar 2023  |  World Politics Review  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Nationwide strikes against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform have paralyzed France for the ninth time. The reform, which raises the retirement age from 62 to 64, was enacted without a parliamentary vote using clause 49.3 of the constitution, leading to widespread public and union outrage. A no-confidence vote in the government narrowly failed, leaving the reform in place.

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Pension Reform Protests Politics

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Lisa Louis is a freelance journalist based in Paris, France.  She is a native German speaker, but also fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese.  She works for TV, radio and online. 

You can find more info and examples of her work on her website: ****

Protesters in Paris Rally Against Rising Costs and Pension Reforms

09 Oct 2023  |  www.dtnext.in  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Thousands of protesters gathered in Paris to demonstrate against rising living costs, tax evasion, and government inaction on climate change, with hopes of sparking a nationwide protest movement. The march was organized by the Nupes coalition, which includes several left-wing parties. Attac member Vincent Gay emphasized the need for higher wages and decisive climate action. Jean-Luc Melenchon, LFI's former presidential candidate, anticipated a significant week of protests, coinciding with strikes by various unions. The government fears these events could lead to a prolonged protest movement, especially as President Macron's administration plans to reform pensions. Political scientist Bruno Cautres and economist Philippe Crevel provided insights into the situation, noting the economic disparities and France's relative economic stability compared to other European countries.

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Pension Reform Protests in France Tax Evasion Living Costs Climate Change Economic Inequality Labor Strikes

Elie Petit is a journalist based in Paris, France.
As a freelance consultant, I currently collaborate with major international media groups helping them cover untold stories or finding new angles to report about mainstream political, social, tech, cultural issues, on a European and international ...

Hundreds of thousands in France protest Macron's pension law on May Day

02 May 2023  |  www.recordpatriot.com  |  English  |  Pension Reform

France's May Day parade saw increased turnout due to opposition to a new law raising the retirement age from 62 to 64. President Macron, lacking a parliamentary majority, enacted the legislation through a constitutional maneuver, sparking union-led protests. Interior Ministry reported 782,000 demonstrators, while labor unions claimed 2.3 million. Despite mostly peaceful protests, there were violent clashes and 291 arrests nationwide. The Constitutional Court's approval of the law limits further protest impact, and the government's invitation to negotiate on social benefits has been rejected by unions.

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Pension Reform Protest Labor Rights

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Marseille-based journalist specialized in print and digital features (The New York Times, The Washington Post, BBC, Euronews) covering a range of topics, from human rights to travel. Fluent in French.

16-64 is a beer, not a career: What it’s like in Paris after weeks of pension reform protests

30 Mar 2023  |  inews.co.uk  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Protests in Paris against President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform, which aims to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, have intensified. The reform, pushed through the National Assembly without a vote, has sparked widespread criticism and demonstrations, with many viewing it as undemocratic. The protests have disrupted daily life, affecting tourist sites like the Louvre and leading to strikes in various sectors. Despite the unrest, the protests are largely peaceful, though tensions occasionally escalate, resulting in clashes with police. Unions plan further strikes, highlighting ongoing public opposition to the reform.

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Pension Reform Protests in France

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Callum Smiles is a journalist based in the south of England. I have worked across Europe with an up to date passport and full clean driving licence. 
Along with millions of views when covering illegal immigration and 15 minute cities I am most known for my work in Davos at the annual World ...

Macron's doing bull****: French protesters rip president's undemocratic reforms

01 May 2023  |  www.rebelnews.com  |  English  |  Pension Reform

Protests in France have intensified since mid-January due to President Emmanuel Macron's pension reform plan, which aims to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64. The reform, pushed through parliament under a controversial constitutional section, has sparked violent demonstrations, particularly during the annual May Day protest. Protesters accuse Macron of undemocratic and tyrannical governance, with some urging police to join their cause or face condemnation. Despite police efforts to control the protests using batons, tear gas, and water cannons, demonstrators remain resolute.

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Pension Reform Protests

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Teresa Suárez (Oviedo, 1993) is a Spanish photographer  and journalist based in Paris since 2014. 
As a documentary photographer, she focuses on exploring issues related to gender, territory or identity — subjects which she has developed in different contries of Europe (Spain, France, Austria, ...

Photo Gallery: Protests in Paris: the demonstrations, in images

21 Apr 2023  |  www.publico.es  |  Spanish  |  Pension Reform

Protests in Paris have intensified over the French government's pension reform, leading to increased security measures. President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism despite his efforts to reconnect with citizens. The leader of the CGT union announced his resignation, while other government officials continue to defend the reform. The government has promised to improve purchasing power and wealth distribution to calm the unrest.

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Pension Reform Protests

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Freelance journalist and a humanitarian worker, I have graduated from the University of Salford with an MA International & Online Journalism and a BA Arabic & Politics. I have a broad expertise in international development, human rights, refugees and humanitarian reporting.

Castelsarrasin. The Communists Call for the Construction of a New Popular Front

15 Apr 2023  |  blogs.mediapart.fr  |  French  |  Pension Reform

Communist militants in Castelsarrasin reaffirm their support for the intersyndicale mobilized against pension reform, praising its unity and mobilization efforts. Maximilien Reynes Dupleix emphasizes the need for left-wing forces to work together, criticizing the NUPES for not being beyond critique. The local PCF section calls for a new Popular Front to promote social and democratic progress, advocating for a cooperative approach with labor unions.

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Pension Reform Political Movements Labor Unions

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Mustapha Tossa is a journalist based in Paris, France.

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Mustapha Tossa est un journaliste franco-marocain né à Marrakech au Maroc le 28 mai 1963.

Il est diplômé de l’Institut supérieur de journalisme à Rabat1 promotion ...

Macron, the loner of the Elysée?

15 Apr 2023  |  atlasinfo.fr  |  French  |  Pension Reform

Emmanuel Macron's pension reform has led to significant social unrest and political tension in France. Despite the Constitutional Council's validation, the reform has been met with widespread opposition, leading to a potential political impasse. Macron's reliance on Article 49.3 has exacerbated the situation, isolating him politically. The article highlights the strained relationship between Macron and his Prime Minister, Elisabeth Borne, and questions the future of Macron's governance amidst ongoing social and political challenges.

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Pension Reform Political Crisis Social Unrest

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I am a business journalist with over ten years of experience in the media industry. Having worked for three of the leading Peruvian newspapers, I have demonstrated a strong track record of reports and interviews across diverse sectors such as banking, government, gas and oil, infrastructure, and ...

Alfredo Thorne on the project to create the Public Pension Organization: 'My proposal was different'

01 Oct 2023  |  peru21.pe  |  Spanish  |  Pension Reform

The article discusses Alfredo Thorne's views on the proposal by the Special Commission for Pension System Reform, led by Carmen Omonte, to create a Public Pension Organization. Thorne clarifies that his original proposal differed, focusing on centralizing administrative costs and ensuring private ownership of pensions. He expresses concerns about the commission's approach, which he believes could lead to a regression towards a public distribution system rather than individual capitalization. Thorne emphasizes the importance of a well-considered pension reform that addresses the core issues of the system, including the retirement age and the need for consensus in the legislative process.

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Pension Reform Economics

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