French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that the minimum wage will be raised and that new taxes on pensions would be scrapped as he responded to weeks of violent protests which have challenged his leadership.
In a televised address to the nation, Macron said the violent protests – which have morphed from a grassroots movement against fuel tax hikes to disparate demonstrations against his presidency – have been “unacceptable” and “will not be in any way indulged.”
But he proposed several social reforms, including an increase in the minimum wage by 100 euros ($113) a month beginning in January 2019 that will not cost employers extra and a promise that overtime hours will not be taxed. Macon also remained defiant and said he would not reinstate the wealth tax but will fight tax fraud.
The reforms are expected to cost the government between $8.1 billion and $10.1 billion, Oliver Dussopt, France’s secretary of state to the Ministry of Public Action and Accounts, told French television station BFM.
While Macron conceded that much of the anger that protesters feel is “just” and that people had “legit concerns,” he condemned the violence which arose during the protests – including cars being set afire and property vandalized.
“No anger justifies attacking a policeman or pillaging a public place or shop,” he said. “When violence breaks out, freedom is lost.”
Macron added that the discontent comes from “40 years of malaise” but acknowledged his government has not been able to respond to it properly in the 18 months it had been in power. He said he assumed his responsibility for that.