We had every right to strike

The French social model, long the envy of other, less fortunate nations, has since the first half of the 20th century been experiencing the ups and downs of "social progress".

In the 1930s and with the arrival in power of the left-wing coalition, the French started benefiting from paid holidays, shorter working weeks, cheaper travel and a strong representation in powerful unions.

More than just a set of rules and laws, France's social policies are part of the country's way of life and a reflection of society's priorities. Children's education, spending quality time with families, enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle, devoting oneself to several hobbies are just some of the values of the French made possible by a fair division of time between work and play.

To an extent, reforming this model and the French pensions is seen as an attack on the core values of this country. Questioning the right to enjoy the crucial years of early retirement will always trigger strong reactions.

The French have a long tradition of disagreement. Whether it was the 2005 referendum on the European constitution or the 2006 demonstrations against the Contrat Première Embauche, we do not think twice about saying no. It is second nature.

Although the notion of the welfare state still holds an important place in France, it is probably the question of quality of life, and the amount of time not spent working, that gave power to the recent wave of demonstrations.

Alice Cannet is a Connexion journalist