Top > World > 2006 > March > 2006-03-28

Major Labor Stoppage Planned in France

France is facing a nationwide strike on Tuesday that threatens to disrupt much of the transportation system. Students and unions insist they will go ahead with the one-day walkout - and more street protests - unless the government withdraws a controversial new youth labor law.

The "First Employment Contract" as it is called, has already sparked violent demonstrations nationwide and shut down universities. Opponents of the law say it would undermine the nation`s social protections. The law lets companies dismiss workers under 26 without cause during their first two years on the job.

The government thinks the law will encourage employers to hire more young workers and reduce France`s high youth unemployment rate. But student groups disagree saying it will only lead to more job uncertainty for youths.