USA vs. France

The past six months in France have been difficult. Unemployment, riots, and social anxiety have all been commonplace. The unemployment is caused by numerous factors, not the least of which is an economically enfeebling social welfare system taking its toll on an aging population. The median age in France is 38.85 years old.

The United States is about to incur the wrath of the 'Baby-Boomer' post-war (WWII) generation. This publication has pointed out (in Healthcare in 2005) February 8, 2006 will be the 60th anniversary of V-E Day, plus nine months. Still, the United States has a median age of 36.27, more than two and a half years younger than France (figures are courtesy of the CIA World Fact Book).

France established a welfare system second to none in the years following WWII. A young population afforded ostentatious accommodations (like a maximum 35 hour work-week) and ingrained those accoutrements into the culture. Now difficult, politically unpalatable, decisions must be made to keep the system solvent. They have their own 'third-rail' of politics (touch it, you get burned).

Social welfare systems are incredibly popular because citizens consider the benefits free (of course they are not). American politicians are keenly aware of their own approaching welfare crisis. President Bush spent last year banging his head into the 'Welfare Wall' with no modification to the system. Without change, the entire system will be exhausted and bankrupt by 2042*.

In 2042, I turn 60. The inaction on this issue vexes me.

* Source: 2005 SOTU