THOUGHTS FROM A STRIKE LEADER IN FRANCE

"One of the key elements of the current movement against the retirement reform is the unity of the trade unions which has so far survived. The trade union leadership thus seems to the general population, like an opposition to the government and Sarkozy.

The survival of this unity is explained by the fact that the government remains adamant about the heart of their reform and refuses to negotiate with union leaders. It also is because of the continued intensity of the mobilizations and the depth of the discontent. This makes it difficult for any trade union leader to break away in the coming months.

But there are strategic differences behind closed doors. Not all trade union leaders are demanding repeal of the retirement reform bill. Some are only asking for new negotiations to amend the bill. While the trade union leaders all organize and support continuing mobilizations and days of action they have refused to go all the way to a social confrontation with this government. Also they have made cautious responses while the most combative workers, such as refinery workers, were being attacked. Our very right to strike is being challenged"

Excerpt from: "French Trade Unions: Going Along to Get Along?" By Sandra Demarq, member of the Executive Committee of the NPA (New Anti-Capitalist Party) October 27, 2010