Material and Social Deprivation Affects Over One in Eight in France

A recent study by the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE) reveals that 12.7% of the population in metropolitan France, roughly one in eight people, are experiencing material and social deprivation as of early 2024. This means these individuals are forced to cut back on essential aspects of life, including heating, food, and vacations, highlighting a persistent challenge for a significant portion of the French population.

The INSEE’s indicator of poverty focuses on the inability of households to afford certain goods and services deemed necessary for a reasonable standard of living. This "material and social deprivation rate" offers a different perspective compared to traditional monetary poverty rates, which are based on income levels. Instead, it examines the actual lived experiences of individuals and families, taking into account their ability to meet basic needs and participate in common social activities.

While the 12.7% figure represents a slight decrease from 12.9% in early 2022 and 13.1% in early 2023, it remains concerningly high. The INSEE emphasizes that the current rate is 0.6 percentage points above the average observed between 2013 and 2020, suggesting a potential long-term trend of increasing hardship for a considerable segment of the French population. This indicates that while there might be short-term improvements, the underlying issues contributing to material and social deprivation persist.

The study assesses deprivation based on a list of 13 items and services considered "desirable, even necessary, for an acceptable standard of living." These include practical necessities like owning two pairs of shoes, being able to adequately heat one’s home, and having access to the internet. It also encompasses dietary needs, such as being able to afford meals with meat or fish every two days. Further, it includes social aspects like the ability to take a one-week vacation away from home each year.

A household is considered to be in a situation of "material and social deprivation" if it must forgo at least five of these 13 items or services. This threshold reflects a significant degree of hardship, indicating that the household is struggling to meet basic needs and participate fully in society. The INSEE describes this situation as being "poor in living conditions," highlighting the tangible impact of deprivation on individuals’ daily lives.

The INSEE study shows mixed trends across different deprivation indicators. On the one hand, there has been a decrease in the proportion of people unable to afford a one-week vacation away from home. In early 2024, 21% reported being unable to afford this, compared to 24% in 2023. Similarly, fewer people reported difficulties purchasing shoes, with this deprivation decreasing from 6% to 3% over the past decade. The lack of internet access has also become negligible, affecting only 1% of the population, likely reflecting increased access programs and the growing importance of internet for accessing essential services.

Conversely, deprivation related to protein intake and heating remains significantly more prevalent than a decade ago, although these deprivations appear to be stabilizing. In early 2024, 12% reported being unable to afford adequate heating for their homes, double the 6% recorded ten years prior. The proportion of people reporting they forgo meals with meat or fish was 10% at the beginning of 2024. These figures highlight a concerning trend of families struggling to afford basic necessities, particularly in the face of rising energy costs and food prices.

The INSEE study also identifies specific groups that are disproportionately affected by material and social deprivation. Unemployed individuals, single-parent families, and tenants in social housing are at the highest risk. The study reveals that over one in three unemployed individuals experience material and social deprivation, highlighting the profound impact of unemployment on living standards. This suggests that unemployment support programs may not be sufficient to prevent individuals from falling into deprivation.

Single-parent families often face financial challenges due to the absence of a second income and the increased costs associated with childcare. Tenants in social housing, while benefiting from subsidized rents, may still struggle to afford other essential expenses, such as heating, food, and clothing.

The INSEE’s findings underscore the complexities of poverty and the importance of considering multiple dimensions of well-being beyond income alone. The material and social deprivation rate provides a valuable tool for monitoring the living conditions of the French population and identifying areas where targeted interventions are needed.

The study highlights the need for comprehensive policies to address the root causes of deprivation, including unemployment, low wages, rising energy costs, and inadequate social support. These measures may include strengthening unemployment benefits, increasing the minimum wage, providing subsidies for energy bills, expanding access to affordable childcare, and investing in social housing.

Ultimately, tackling material and social deprivation requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both economic and social factors. By focusing on the lived experiences of individuals and families, policymakers can develop more effective strategies to ensure that all members of French society have the opportunity to live with dignity and participate fully in community life. The INSEE’s findings serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the need for sustained efforts to promote social inclusion and economic opportunity.