Since mid-November 2018, France has been shaken by the
"yellow vests" mass demonstrations. Originated on social
media and grounded in its opposition to the TICPE (fuel tax)
increase, the leaderless movement expresses more broadly, according
to many analysts, a reaction to the dwindling purchase power of the
middle class and a strong stance against the French
establishment.
The political impact of the movement was quickly felt, as
President Macron announced, in a televised address aired on 10
December 2018, a series reform aiming at meeting the yellow vests
demands, including notably an increased minimum wage, tax and
social exemptions for overtime hours as well as a tax and social
contributions-free end of the year bonus.
