France's minimum wage rise fails to quell street protests

The French government is expected to announce a minimum wage increase at a social conference opening Monday, with a proposed rise of about 25 euros per month, a move seen as insufficient to quell ongoing street protests. The increase of 1.5% would bring the SMIC above 1,500 euros net monthly from its current level of roughly 1,477 euros. Unions are demanding far more, with the CFDT seeking 100 euros, the CGT a 10% rise, and left-wing parties calling for a 15% increase to 1,700 euros. The government argues that a larger hike would destroy 250,000 jobs and cites France's debt constraints, while employers seek reduced social charges in exchange. The last significant minimum wage increase occurred in 2012.