The trouble with basing a nation’s economics and politics on empty jargon and pandering is that when change is necessary, the stakeholders lack the nerve to affect it. France is a nation that has boasted one of the weakest economies in Europe for decades. Faced with high unemployment, low productivity and a demographic time bomb much like our own, the French government belatedly and half-heartedly sought to mitigate its troubles by legislation. Disaffected youth rioted over a period of several days. Today the government bowed to pressure and will withdraw portions of the controversial law.
Is this the political process in France? Government is elected. Government governs. Displeased constituents diminish economic productivity and destroy property, all while waving signs in English made especially for CNN. Government then alters its policies. What ever happened to elections?