This is a good read from German newspaper DW. It reminds us that the French people have consistently opposed any liberalization of the labor market. It warns that now that President Emmanuel Macron wants to liberalize labor, trade unions have already called for protests.

Source: Can France liberalize pensions and labor under Macron? | Europe | DW | 17.06.2017

The article looks at the history of labor market reform in France and highlights the daunting task for President Macron. It suggests that effective communication is an important ingredient for Macron’s team.

I am less optimistic, having lived in France through strikes. Other French presidents started with powerful mandates but they failed to deliver radical change.

Having spent much of my career delivering strategic change, I am convinced that President Macron will need more than his election success and good communication.

One place to start might be a force-field analysis looking at the barriers to change and how resistence might be effectively countered.

Any thoughts on how President Macron might improve his chances of delivering labor market reform in France?

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