France weighs SMIC increase as protests persist

The French government is expected to confirm a minimum wage (SMIC) increase at a social conference opening Monday, a raise of about 1.5% or roughly 25 euros net per month, a move seen as insufficient to quell ongoing street protests. The increase would bring the SMIC above 1,500 euros net monthly from its current level of just over 1,477 euros. Unions are demanding far more, with the CFDT seeking a 100-euro boost, the CGT a 10% rise, and left-wing parties like LFI calling for a 15% increase to 1,700 euros, while the government cites national debt constraints. This would be the first significant government-initiated SMIC hike since 2012, as automatic annual increases are already expected. The government is also considering employer demands for reduced social charges in exchange, and warns that a 15% rise could destroy 250,000 jobs.