"CAP" is a policy targeting young people's first employment. Essentially, after a two-year probationary period, employers could dismiss workers without cause, leaving employees with no rights or compensation upon termination.
The law was pushed through by the right-wing ruling party (as UMP held a majority in parliament) without consulting unions or alliances. It was only forced to be withdrawn after nearly two months of face-to-face student demonstrations and strikes, combined with resistance from major labor unions. Demonstrations, strikes, and work stoppages are common forms of social confrontation in France, so locals are accustomed to them.
Opposing the "CAP" policy was the most significant political and social event in Paris between March and April 2006.
