However, the unions had previously declined the invitation and called for a roar of protest in front of city halls during the President's speech. In Paris and elsewhere, people were on the streets at 8 p.m. venting their anger at the President by making noise with cooking pots and lids.

"In the demonstrations, I heard the rejection of the reform, but also the will to improve working conditions," said Macron, who once again reiterated the need for the reform. "Was this reform accepted? Apparently not," he stated. "Despite months of negotiations, no compromise could be found, I regret that."

However, the reform was passed in accordance with the constitution. "The changes were necessary to secure pensions for everyone and create more prosperity for the nation," Macron said.

For the first time, he expressly mentioned the massive demonstrations, which "were largely peaceful". "Nobody - least of all I - can remain deaf to these demands for social justice," Macron said.

He announced numerous projects for the next hundred days that should improve the lives of the French. These include "green" industrial projects, more security forces in rural areas, more school sports and an intensified fight against illegal immigration. Just as he worked to rebuild Paris' Notre-Dame Cathedral within five years, he will now take care of the nation, he promised. On the national holiday on July 14, he wanted to take stock.