Valid protest or Anarchy ?

britexpat
By britexpat

Ok, they may not be good at winning wars, but the latest goings on in France highlight - what to me - is great about "liberty"; The right to stand up and voice their opinions against government. We used to do it as students and in the early twenties, but ..........

So, are the French protesters going too far or doing the right thing ?

By britexpat• 22 Oct 2010 12:33
britexpat

I agree that perhaps they are not looking at the bigger picture.. However, my point was about the right to protest and voicing their opinions.

Many a time, governments and the press view this as anarchy and take measures accordingly..

By anonymous• 22 Oct 2010 12:10
anonymous

The government is the servant of the people, and not the other way around.

By ex.ex.expat• 22 Oct 2010 11:45
Rating: 5/5
ex.ex.expat

but on the other hand, they are not grounded if they don't accept that this economic crises is bound to affect things like retirement age and pensions. It's tough on the generations that will pay for it, but in a way it is a force majeure.

By Nic• 22 Oct 2010 11:36
Rating: 5/5
Nic

genesis,

Ça ne va pas, non?!

The number of working hours by itself, does not provide you with productivity!

35 hours/week, may be more productive than 60 hours/ week.

Productivity is measured by quantity of output/per hour.

As for the OP question, even though they might have a point, the social system is about to burst and if they want to maintain it for some time longer, they have to do something about it, either cut benefits or increase charges.

By changing the retirement age from 60 to 62, they are doing both as well as reversing their progress towards the European current trends.

By anonymous• 22 Oct 2010 11:26
Rating: 4/5
anonymous

general it's actually good that people can't hold the government for ransom here.

By FathimaH• 22 Oct 2010 11:23
Rating: 5/5
FathimaH

where strikes are way common. Its teachers,doctors, students,public transportation guys, workers etc.. sometimes it achieves the desired results and sometimes it doesn't. However I find it horrid when for example the Electricity and Water Board wen't on a four day strike. Island-wide the water and power was off and many lives were lost including patients in hospitals! Such protests can never be right,IMO.

By general_disarray• 22 Oct 2010 11:23
general_disarray

I wonder what would happen if the same thing were to happen here...?!

It would have to be something that REALLY made them mad though. i.e. Banning white Landcruisers, banning curbside ordering of fast food, banning nannies ("WHAT?! I HAVE TO RAISE MY OWN KIDS?!?! HOW DARE YOU?!", etc.

By timebandit• 22 Oct 2010 11:17
timebandit

Are there any French here in QL today?

By genesis• 22 Oct 2010 11:15
Rating: 5/5
genesis

i think they are exaggerating.

So what the retirement age have increased?

with all due respect, The french are the least productive among other western European countries. They take full 35 paid leave days, they barely work from 9 till 5( that includes the long coffee breaks & lunch breaks)

No wonder most leading french companies are sold or offered for sell

By anonymous• 22 Oct 2010 11:11
Rating: 3/5
anonymous

Strike is never a solution to any problem. This "Protest" is plain and simple blackmail in my opinion.

By FathimaH• 22 Oct 2010 11:02
Rating: 5/5
FathimaH

If it gets the desired results and its for the betterment of the country and all its people, and its done in a peaceful law abiding manner then why not?I see it that rather than seeking an anarchy its more like them giving their government feedback and advice on how best and fair to do things, Allahu alim. however its never a good protest when laws are broken and there's violence involved even if the protesters have a valid enough cause.. Two wrongs do not make a right.

By timebandit• 22 Oct 2010 10:58
Rating: 5/5
timebandit

The French chopped of the heads of all their Royal Family. I wouldn't class this as going to far where they are concerned ;)

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.