French Pension Reform Suspension Excludes 'Carrières Longues' Scheme

The French government has suspended the 2023 pension reform but notably excluded the 'carrières longues' (long careers) scheme from this suspension. This targeted category allows individuals who began working at a young age—such as 16, 18, 20, or 21—to retire earlier than the general retirement age of 64. A source close to the matter confirmed that those eligible for long careers will not be affected by the suspension, which only applies to the common law pension trajectories.

In 2024, an estimated 118,252 personal pensions granted under the general scheme, or 18%, are expected to be from the 'carrières longues' category, according to the Caisse nationale d'assurance vieillesse (CNAV). However, some union leaders expressed concerns about the fairness and implementation of the suspension, especially for workers from the 1964 and 1965 birth cohorts who are transitioning into this scheme. Yvan Ricordeau from the CFDT highlighted generational complexities in adapting the long careers provisions, while Denis Gravouil of the CGT criticized excluding this category, calling the decision scandalous. Manuel Bompard from France insoumise also conveyed disappointment at the government's handling of the issue.

The government's justification for excluding long careers from suspension is based on the scheme's already favorable trajectory compared with common law retirement paths. It was further clarified that future retirees born between 1964 and 1968 will not benefit from the suspension. This development comes as the government navigates political pressures, including avoiding censure, and reflects ongoing tensions in France's pension policy debates.