President Macron wanted to raise the pension age in France from 62 years to 64. He lost his parliamentary majority elections last year, so he was scraping around trying to put together a majority and pass this legislation. The opposition needed 287 votes but got only 278; 19 Republicans voted against the government. Sophie Petter: "There is a sort of brewing mood of discontent that could spread"
Emmanuel Macron narrowly survived two no-confidence votes, sparked by his pushing a pension-reform package through the legislature without bringing it up for a vote. But his troubles are far from over. Covid and the war in Ukraine exacerbated Russia’s long-standing demographic woes. And we analyse the artistry of the world’s greatest mime, born 100 years ago today.
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, subscribe here www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer