The French are rebelling at government plans to raise the retirement age. President Emmanuel Macron says pension reforms are “essential and vital” to balance the budget. Trade union leaders are promising what they’re calling 'the mother of all battles' using strikes and protest rallies.

That threatens a repeat of the chaos of last year when petrol stations ran dry during weeks of industrial action at oil refineries. So can Macron push his plan through this time, or has he lost France?

Guests:

Charlotte Minvielle

Co-chair French Green Party UK

Renaud Foucart

Senior Lecturer in Economics at Lancaster University

Pierre Maurin

Member of the French Centrist Party

Roundtable is a discussion programme with an edge. Broadcast out of London and presented by David Foster, it’s about bringing people to the table, listening to every opinion, and analysing every point of view. From fierce debate to reflective thinking, Roundtable discussions offer a different perspective on the issues that matter to you. Watch it every weekday at 15:30 GMT on TRT World.