France Freezes the Legal Retirement Age Until 2028

France has decided to temporarily halt the increase of the minimum retirement age established in the 2023 pension reform. The National Assembly has approved a measure that freezes the legal retirement age at 62 years and 9 months until at least January 2028.

The decision follows months of public pressure, political tension, and growing concern about the economic impact of the reform amid a complex European landscape.

Why Is the Reform Being Paused?

The gradual increase to 64, promoted by President Macron’s government, triggered major protests and an ongoing debate about pension sustainability, intergenerational fairness, and working conditions for older employees.

The new agreement does not repeal the reform but suspends its progression, allowing time to reassess demographic projections, budgetary forecasts, and labour-market dynamics.

What This Means for People Over 50

For the 50+ community—already navigating longer careers, professional reskilling, and greater attention to health—this pause brings:

• Short-term clarity: those approaching retirement in the next few years now have a clearer view of their timeline.

• More time to prepare: individuals can better plan finances, training, and professional transitions.

• Increased focus on senior employability: the freeze reignites the debate on how to improve job access and quality for workers over 55, a challenge across most of Europe.

Europe Is Paying Attention

France’s decision may influence other countries facing similar pressures as they review their pension systems in response to an ageing population.
The challenge is substantial: more people living longer, while the workforce does not grow at the same pace.

This move brings back a central question: How do we redesign the labour market for a society where reaching 60 with energy, ambition, and strong professional capability is increasingly common?