Resources: Talking point - Should young people expect job security?

Job security is at the heart of a dispute in France. New youth employment contracts offer a two-year trial period to first-time workers. During that time, employers will be able to dismiss young workers aged 18 to 25 without explanation. For older workers, the trial period is usually three months or less.

The government argues that in exchange for less job security, young people will have a greater choice and more jobs. Discuss this offer with young people. Would they accept a lower level of security in their first job if it meant they had more chance of getting work? Talk about how easy it should be for employers to dismiss workers if they are not up to the job or are no longer needed. Is this vital for a healthy economy? Or is it something that is likely to be abused by employers just to increase their profits?