Yaël Braun-Pivet calls for a "grand pact with the French" following COR's report on pension reform

Paris – 09.06.2026: The Pension Orientation Council (COR) in its latest report recommended a gradual increase in the average retirement age in France to 67.6 years by 2070. This recommendation is based on a forecast of a structural deficit in the pension system, which could reach 2.4 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) by that time — an increase compared to 1.4 percent last year. The main reasons for this are demographic changes: declining birth rates and an aging population.

Yael Braun-Pivet, president of the National Assembly, responded to the report with a call for a “grand pact with the French people.” She insists on broad societal dialogue to shape the proposed reforms together with the population. In her view, such dialogue is essential to achieve acceptance of profound changes in the pension system.

The proposal involves a gradual increase in the retirement age from the current approximately 62 years to 64.4 years by 2030, 65.8 years by 2045, and ultimately 67.6 years in 2070. These stages are intended to help ensure the long-term financial stability of the system.

The plan is sparking intense debate: trade unions and various political figures express concern about the impact on the quality of life for older workers and the labor market overall. They call for alternative measures to ensure sustainable development of the pension system without increasing burdens on workers.

Braun-Pivet emphasizes that the reform must be inclusive and also consider social aspects. The pension reform is part of a comprehensive social and economic strategy aimed at solidarity and fairness. An isolated approach will not adequately address complex societal challenges.

This discussion is taking place against the backdrop of a broader conversation about the future of the French social state amid an aging society. Politicians and experts are seeking innovative ways to preserve social achievements while ensuring financial sustainability.

The coming weeks will show how the government and public groups react to COR’s proposals and which specific reform steps will be implemented. Braun-Pivet’s call for a “grand pact” could be an important step toward gaining broad public support for the necessary changes and ensuring social peace.

Overall, the current situation highlights how complex and responsible the issue of pensions in France is. Only a balanced, inclusive approach that takes into account both economic and social aspects will allow for the development of long-term solutions.