Living costs outpace income

Workers and retirees are facing a historic drop in living standards due to rising expenses for fuel, food, rent, gas, and electricity, while wages and pensions have not increased. This has created a significant financial strain for many households.

Corsican unions demand action

In Ajaccio, a group of unions representing retirees from Corsica-du-Sud — including CGT, FO, CFE-CGC, Unsa, ANR, FSU, and CFTC — has focused on restoring purchasing power in their demands. Their press conference coincided with a meeting by the Agirc-Arrco board to review complementary pensions for 14 million private sector retirees, which saw no increase in 2025.

Calls for pension increases

The intersyndical organization expressed disappointment at not being invited to a social conference organized by the Collectivity of Corsica, which was attended by other labor groups. They are requesting a 1 percent catch-up for 2025 and a 2.6 percent increase for 2026, aligned with inflation, and want to restart negotiations on a catch-up plan since 2020.

Specific challenges in Corsica

The unions highlight the unique challenges faced by Corsicans, noting that wages are lower than the national average and that prices for land, rent, transportation, and food are higher. They also criticize fuel prices, saying tax reductions are not reflected in consumer costs.

Transport and aging population

The intersyndical organization is asking for travel assistance for retirees, similar to what workers receive, including a 50 percent discount on air and maritime transport. They argue that retirees need to travel to the mainland for healthcare and other needs, not just the wealthy. They also warn of an aging population and a lack of adequate facilities for retirees.

Family support and systemic issues

The unions point out that retirees often support both their parents and children, including young people who are unemployed or underemployed. They argue that the state is unfairly targeting retirees instead of addressing the root causes of economic hardship. They oppose pension freezes and any changes to the 10 percent tax exemption on pensions.

Open letter to officials

The intersyndical organization plans to send an open letter to Corsican officials, local leaders, and national lawmakers, asking them to clarify their positions on upcoming budget decisions. Their aim is to defend retirees and meet their legitimate demands.