Having lived in France, I would definitely agree on some level with that, I see an entire nation of people fighting over surpluses and a lot less productivity - but I wonder if even that would be enough.

Agree with Macron or not - that's at least him doing is job to 'make things happen' - but the degree of complicity is just to much.

There's money going somewhere somehow, that's the missing piece.

I don't suggest there is outright bribery because that's 'illegal' and would 'really get them in trouble' but something softer like campaign contributions or related causes, or favours here and there.