What's Happening in Paris?

For the second time in less than a year, France is experiencing another wave of riots. This one similar to the riots last December, involve youths protesting, at times violently, to make a point. Now I understand the reasons the December riots occurred - discrimination towards coloured youths, lack of employment opportunities, failure to integrate to mainstream society - but the reasons as to why the current riots are happening is perplexing. The students are protesting a law which, in my opinion, facilitates their chances of receiving employment. Students believe this law, which makes it easier to hire and fire workers under the age of 26, will destroy their future because they will be fired anytime an employer wants. While this may be true, France needs labor regulation changes to help it compete with the global market. With globalism, the French must realize that Socialism is a diminishing force that cannot both sustain itself and operate efficient markets. In addition, the students should realize that firing employees is the employer's last resort. It is not easy finding replacement workers, training them, and having them start from square one. Furthermore, since the law makes it easier to fire workers, it also therefore, makes it easier to hire people. With additional positions available, an educated, well-skilled student should not have much trouble obtaining a job. In the end, I think the core of this issue is Socialism. It defines French society and now is in the forefront more than ever as the future generations try desperately to preserve its values.