Special Treatment for Public Holidays: Unique Aspects of Alsace and the Moselle
Article: Alsace and Moselle's Unique Public Holiday Calendar
Prime Minister François Bayrou has expressed a desire to remove two public holidays for employees and civil servants without financial compensation, but the specific holidays in question have not been identified. However, it is important to note that the departments of Alsace and Moselle may be affected by this decision, as they currently have a distinct set of public holidays compared to mainland France.
These regions, which were annexed by Germany from 1871 to 1918, adopted German laws, traditions, and holidays during this period. Some of these holidays, such as Good Friday and St. Stephen’s Day (December 26), continue to be observed as public holidays in Alsace and Moselle today.
Unlike in mainland France, where only May 1st is automatically a public holiday (unless exemptions apply, in which case the remuneration is doubled), the public holidays in Alsace and Moselle are automatically public holidays. The labor code in these regions provides for thirteen public holidays, two more than in mainland France.
The retention of these holidays is a reflection of the legal and cultural immunity Alsace-Moselle had, stemming from their German annexation period. This unique status also comes from special local laws that were carried over, including religious laws and other legal elements, linked to their German past and distinct historical trajectory.
It is worth mentioning that these additional public holidays were established by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1892 when these regions were under German rule. They were maintained after Alsace and Moselle returned to France in 1918 and have remained part of local custom and law ever since.
Interestingly, Alsace and Moselle are not affected by the solidarity day established in 2004, unlike other territories. Additionally, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, which was not previously affected by the solidarity day, also has its own unique public holiday calendar due to its historical affiliations.
In mainland France, the labor code lists eleven public holidays, but their paid nature is not automatic and requires agreement between social partners or unilateral decision by the employer. Any specificities for Alsace, Moselle, and Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon can be discussed, according to Bayrou's letter.
In conclusion, the specific historical reason for Alsace and Moselle having two extra public holidays is their annexation by Germany (1871-1918), during which they were governed by German laws that introduced these holidays. When returned to France, these holidays remained part of local custom and law, giving Alsace and Moselle a distinct set of public holidays today.
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