Allgemeine und berufliche Bildung und lebenslanges Lernen

The state of education in France worsened in 2023 under President Emmanuel Macron, the NSG reports. In October 2023, the former Minister of National Education and Youth, Gabriel Attal, announced the “choc des savoirs” (knowledge shock). This reform came into force in September 2024, at the start of the school year, with a new organization of Mathematics and French classes in smaller groups based on the educational needs as its flagship measure.[1] This initiative aims to raise educational attainment levels by organising maths and French classes in separate groups based on students’ levels. Class sizes will be reduced to around 15 for students with the lowest performance. The measure is intended to address declining standards, but there has been criticism from school staff and civil society who argue that it will reinforce social inequalities by isolating struggling students, who often come from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds.[2] These measures set up a form of early selection system based on school performance, which – combined with increasingly selective policies introduced in 2017 [3] – risks deepening disparities rather than combating them. The CEMEA (Training Centres for Active Education Methods) criticises the measure as pedagogically ineffective, pointing to implementation failures in previous years. Over the last few decades, many experimental school programmes with similar objectives have been launched without success.[4] It also notes that it is unlikely to succeed without significant financial and human resources, but that the national education system is currently underfunded. A week after the start of the 2024 school year, surveys conducted by two national education staff unions revealed that approximately two-thirds of middle schools have not implemented level groups as intended. In addition to insufficient resources, some teachers and parents are also rejecting the "social sorting" implied by the reform.[5]

President Macron’s announcement in early 2024 of a plan for the “civic rearmament” of young people through Universal National Service (“Service national universel” – SNU) sparked significant criticism from civil society, with many associations opposing its generalisation to an entire age group. Macron stated that the first phase of the SNU, which consists of a 12-day cohesion camp focused on civic education, will become compulsory for all 15 to 17-year-olds entering high school.  He argued that the reform and the concept of "civic rearmament" aim to instil French and European values in youth and reinforce their attachment to the French Republic. However, the inclusion of military elements in the programme—such as a day in the army, flag-raising ceremonies, and uniforms—has drawn criticism, as it resembles a form of military service that is no longer compulsory. After completing the 12 days, participants will have the option to apply for volunteer opportunities in a civil society organisation (CSO). While Macron's declaration indicates that participation will be compulsory, this has not yet been implemented. It's important to note that the SNU is not a new initiative; since 2019, the Universal National Service has been trialled in various regions, primarily on a voluntary basis. However, 37% of the places funded were unfilled in 2023, despite efforts from the government to increase participation. As early as 2018, a parliamentary information report highlighted a lack of human resources and preparation across the competent national and local authorities extensive rollout of the scheme.[6] For all these reasons, the idea of making the first phase of the SNU compulsory has been shelved for the time being. 

The CEMEA argues that the SNU lacks support from the educational community, that it has insufficient financial resources, that the supervisors are poorly trained – and that these factors undermine its effectiveness.[7] They believe popular education would be a better way to achieve the programme’s goals of sharing knowledge and reinforcing republican principles and values. Education unions oppose the Universal National Service on two key grounds: the large financial investment amid ongoing cuts to the education budget and the risk of indoctrinating young people through military-style practices such as flag-raising and strict discipline.[8] These, they feel, contradict schools’ role in promoting critical thinking and emancipating youth through knowledge.[9]

Similar concerns surround the reform of moral and civic education (EMC), which unions fear will shift the focus from free citizenship and tolerance to respect for order.[10] This concern has been heightened in the wake of the 2024 urban uprisings, which followed the death of Nahel Merzouk, a 17-year-old boy killed by a police officer's point-blank shot who claimed refusal to cooperate during a routine traffic stop for driving in a bus lane.[11] Although the Minister of Education announced in 2023 that EMC hours would be doubled,[12] the Official Order of March 15, 2024, shows that the school programmes for the start of the 2024 school year have not been modified in relation to EMC.[13]

In 2023, co-payments for continuous training were introduced, requiring employees to cover 10% of their training costs. Civil society argues this measure disproportionately affects the working class, limiting access to necessary training in an evolving job market.[14] In early 2024, a decree cancelled €691 million from the education budget and €863 million from employment development, significantly impacting both school and adult education budgets. The cuts have an impact on sectors such as social work and extracurricular activities, for which continuous training is crucial, so they could potentially harm organisations that provide so-called popular education. The 2023 finance law for 2024 stipulated cuts of €691 million for the Ministry of Education and €904 million for the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. With the 2024  budget cuts of €386 million in primary and secondary education, it highlights an increasing decline in educational resources, which have continued despite earlier warnings from civil society.[15] As needs grow due to rising insecurity and poor public education policies, these cuts are worsening teachers' working conditions, limiting extracurricular learning, and removing crucial support (such as nurses and psychologists, employed by the Ministry of Education to intervene in schools) leaving vulnerable children without the assistance they need. The decree of 29 November 2023 introduced a compulsory 15-day internship in June 2024 for first-year students in general and technological high schools.[16] This measure aims to compensate for the early summer break that results from not having end-of-year exams like older students. First-year students often finish classes in early June, leaving them without school for nearly three months. The internship is intended to keep students engaged during this period. However, teachers' unions have raised concerns about schools’ logistical and organisational difficulties in implementing the scheme.

Bewährte Verfahren

For the past few years, the French state has promoted Educational Cities (Cités éducatives), local initiatives that aim to enhance educational support from early childhood until the age of 30 by collaborating with diverse communities and actors. The Ligue de l’Enseignement calls for new educational policies that function in a similar way – locally based and with greater resources allocated by local authorities. A good example of an Educational City is in the Planoise district of Besançon, where 20 educational institutions participate in the programme, working to engage families, support with homework and other activities such as sports and civic participation, and to foster mutual understanding between parents, children, and educators.[17]

Inclusion of migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, minorities, and other vulnerable groups

In December 2023, the French Parliament adopted an immigration bill tightening the conditions for non-EU nationals to access social benefits. These include family allowances, housing aid (APL), back-to-school allowances (provided annually to low-income families for school expenses), and the personalised autonomy allowance (APA), which offers financial support to people aged 60 and over who require care assistance. The law requires non-European residents to wait five years to qualify for these benefits if they are not working and 30 months if they are employed.[18] In response, 45 associations and unions, including Fondation Abbé Pierre, Oxfam, and SOS Racisme, signed an open letter urging the government not to promulgate the law and called for continued mobilisation to oppose it[19] The French Constitutional Council censured parts of the bill on 25 January, 2024, rejecting its restrictions on social benefits.[20]

Undocumented migrants, who represent half of France's homeless population, remain particularly vulnerable. The Ligue de l'Enseignement strongly criticised the bill, denouncing the restrictions on access to healthcare and the increased risk of poverty.[21] The organisation warns that the law would undermine the right to residency, limit access to residence permits, and deprive vulnerable people of essential benefits, including housing and emergency accommodation. According to the Human Rights League[22], the situation for foreign nationals has deteriorated due to the widespread digitisation of administrative processes. Physical counters for foreign nationals no longer exist, and everything must now be done online, making it increasingly difficult for many to carry out procedures or renew residence permits. The Asylum and Immigration Law exacerbates these challenges by introducing stricter conditions for accessing social benefits and residence permits. One of the most problematic requirements is language proficiency, which is seen as discriminatory—creating barriers not only for non-French speakers but also for those with disabilities or lower educational levels.

[1] Ministère de l’Éducation nationale (2024), Choc des savoirs, une nouvelle ambition pour le collège: https://www.education.gouv.fr/bo/2024/Special2/MENE2407076N

[2] Conseil économique, social et environnemental (2024), Réussite à l’Ecole, réussite de l’Ecole: https://www.lecese.fr/actualites/reussite-lecole-reussite-de-lecole

[3] These measures include the introduction of "Parcoursup" in 2018, an online system that selectively admits students to higher education based on their academic records. The Baccalauréat reform in 2021 allows students to specialise earlier, often benefiting those from privileged backgrounds. Additionally, European and bilingual sections have been reintroduced in schools, attracting top-performing students. In Paris, the "multi-college" sectors aim to reduce social segregation by grouping several middle schools within a single sector, although they remain geographically selective.

[4] Cémea (2023), Sans Tabou ! Pour une réelle coéducation:  Sans tabou ! pour une réelle coéducation (cemea.asso.fr)

[5]  L’Humanité (2024) “Choc des savoirs” : Au collège, les groupes de niveau virent au fiasco, https://www.humanite.fr/societe/choc-des-savoirs/choc-des-savoirs-au-college-les-groupes-de-niveau-virent-au-fiasco

[6] Assemblée Nationale (2018),Rapport d’information déposé par la commission de la défense nationale et des forces armées sur le service national universel:  https://www.assemblee-nationale.fr/dyn/15/rapports/cion_def/l15b0667_rapport-information

[7] Cémea - France (2023), SNU, pourquoi pas, mais pas dans la version actuelle:  ESNU, pourquoi pas, mais pas dans la version actuelle... (cemea.asso.fr)

[8] Carenews (2023), Pourquoi le service national universel (SNU) suscite-t-il autant de craintes? : https://www.carenews.com/carenews-info/news/pourquoi-le-snu-suscite-t-il-autant-de-craintes

[9] Francetvinfo (2024), “Généralisation du SNU : “Ca représente 50 000 postes d’enseignants et un million d’heures de cours perdues”, déplore le SNPDEN-Unsa :  https://www.francetvinfo.fr/societe/education/service-national-universel/generalisation-dusnu-ca-represente-50-000-postes-d-enseignants-et-un-million-d-heures-de-cours-perd)uesdeplore-le-snpden-unsa_6336904.html

[10] Ministère de l’éducation nationale (2023), Enseignement moral et civique : Pap Ndiaye précise la refonte de ce temps d’enseignement: https://www.education.gouv.fr/enseignement-moral-et-civique-pap-ndiaye-precise-la-refonte-de-ce-temps-d-enseignement-378554  

[11] France24 (2023), French officer who fatally shot teenager Nahel, sparking riots, released pending murder trial: https://www.france24.com/en/france/20231115-france-releases-policeman-behind-killing-of-teenager-nahel-that-sparked-nationwide-riots

[12] Le Figaro étudiant (2023), ”A partir de 2024, les heures d’enseignement moral et civique seront doublées: https://www.lemonde.fr/societe/article/2024/03/12/enseignement-moral-et-civiquedoublement-de-l-horaire-refonte-des-prog

[13] Légifrance (2024) ’Journal officiel électronique authentifié n° 0065 du 17/03/2024” : https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000049286467 

[14] Vie publique (2024), ”Loidu 29 décembre 2023 de finances pour 2024” : https://www.vie-publique.fr/loi/291190-loi-du-29-decembre-2023-de-finances-pour-2024-budget-plf#un-d%C3%A9cret-dannulation-de-cr%C3%A9dits-de-10-milliards-deuros

[15] L’Etudiant EducPros (2024), ”Budget 2024 : dans l’éducation comme dans le supérieur, les économies annnoncées inquiètent” : Budget 2024 : dans l'éducation comme dans le supérieur, les économies annoncées inquiètent - L'Etudiant - Educpros (letudiant.fr)

[16] In France, a general high school is a type of high school that prepares students primarily for higher education, such as universities. A technological high school pursues the same objectives but for more specialised curriculum, focusing on applied sciences and technology. These types of high schools are often combined.

[17] La Ligue de l’Enseignement (2021), Rapport d’Activité de la Ligue de l’enseignement: https://laligue.org/uploads/2023/05/rapportactivite2021.pdf

[18] Légifrance (2024), Journal officiel électronique authentifié n° 0022 du 27/01/2024: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000049040245

[19] La Cimade (2023), Appel : Nous, syndicats, associations, appelons à ne pas promulguer la loi immigration et à continuer la mobilisation: Appel : Nous, syndicats, associations, appelons à ne pas promulguer la loi Immigration et à continuer la mobilisation - La Cimade

[20] Francetvinfo (2024), Projet de loi immigration : le Conseil constitutionnel censure largement le texte, notamment les restrictions d’accès aux prestations sociales et au regroupement familial: 

https://www.francetvinfo.fr/societe/immigration/projet-de-loi-immigration-le-conseilconstitutionnel-censure-largement-le-texte-notamment-les-restrictions-d-acces-auxprestations-sociales-et-au-regroupement-familial_6325677.html

[21] La Ligue(2024), Non à la promulgation de la loi immigration! : Non à la promulgation de la loi immigration ! - La Ligue de l'enseignement

[22] Ligue des Droits de l’Homme (2023), Les diasporas et les collectifs de sans-papiers appellent à des politiques migratoires humaines pour bâtir un projet de société solidaire et inclusif: Les diasporas et les collectifs de sans-papiers appellent à des politiques migratoires humaines pour bâtir un projet de société solidaire et inclusif - LDH (ldh-france.org)

Social solidarity economy

Although the French government created a Secretary of State and a roadmap for the social economy in 2023, concrete actions were lacking, the NSG reports. The associative movement was waiting for resources and discussions with the government on these issues but did not get these. The Economic and Finance Commission acknowledged the valuable contribution of the social and solidarity economy (SSE) to

general society, supporting the case for public funding. However, there has been no decisive action or follow-through on these commitments.[1]

In November 2023, Minister Delegate for Medium-sized Enterprises Olivia Grégoire, unveiled a roadmap for the social and solidarity economy.[2] The plan included appointing Maxime Baduel as the ministerial delegate for the SSE, raising the ceiling that currently obliges solidarity investment funds to reinvest between 5 and 10% of their assets in solidarity organizations. It also introduced measures to strengthen partnerships between the SSE and the for-profit private sector, such as incentives for companies to place orders with SSE entities and the creation of "impact contracts" to reimburse private players who finance successful social or environmental projects[3] The contracts enable the French government to scale up solutions developed by social economy organisations. The project is financed by one or more private investors, who are reimbursed by the State depending on the project's success.   While sector representatives appreciate the new recognition for the SSE, they also urge the government to implement multiyear programming, and they express concern over the potential distortion of the SSE model through increased involvement of the private, for-profit sector. They fear that, without safeguards, "impact contracts" might turn social and solidarity economy projects into financial investments, undermining the sector's social goals. The CNAJEP notes that, despite the minister’s efforts, policies continue to favour profit-driven companies, which could ultimately undermine the SSE's mission to serve the general interest.

In the 2024 Finance Bill, only €22.4 million of the €491 billion state budget – or 0.0046% – was allocated to the SSE. This is an 8.2% increase from the allocated budget of the previous year, but it has been entirely nullified by inflation, and its percentage of the state budget has remained largely unchanged over the past decade.[4] SSE representatives criticise this allocation as "laughable" given the sector's significant contributions to the economy – of 10% to the country's GDP and 14% of jobs in the private sector. The Higher Council for Social and Solidarity Economy also laments the "lack of political will and resources" despite the promise to scale up support for the sector in the Law on the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE), which was adopted in 2014 on the initiative of Benoît Hamon, then a deputy minister.[5]

[1] Conseil supérieur de l’Economie sociale et solidaire (2022), Avis du Conseil supérieur de l‘Economie sociale et solidaire sur le bilan de la loi 2014: (https://www.economie.gouv.fr/files/files/2023/Avis-CS-ESS-Bilan-loi-2014.pdf

[2] Caisse des Dépôts (2023), ”Olivia Grégoire veut ”renforcer la présence et la connaissance” de l’économie sociale et solidaire dans les territoires: Olivia Grégoire veut "renforcer la présence et la connaissance" de l’économie sociale et solidaire dans les territoires (banquedesterritoires.fr)

[3] Observatoire citoyen de la marchandisation des associations (2023), Marchandisation et financiarisation des associations. Décryptage d’un processus: https://www.associations-citoyennes.net/1er-rapport-de-lobservatoire-de-la-marchandisation-des-assos-17-fev/

[4] Conseil supérieur de l’Economie sociale et solidaire (2022), Conseil supérieur de l’Economie sociale et solidaire sur le bilan de la loi 2014: Avis-CS-ESS-Bilan-loi-2014.pdf (economie.gouv.fr)

[5] Reporterre (2023), “l‘Economie sociale et solidaire : un acteur de poids au budget public minuscule“ :  https://reporterre.net/L-economie-sociale-et-solidaire-un-acteur-de-poids-au-budget-public-minuscule

Armutsbekämpfung

Although various measures were taken in 2023 to reduce poverty, the overall situation worsened, and social inequalities rose, according to the NSG. Despite safety nets such as the Active Solidarity Income (RSA), a minimum income guaranteed to beneficiaries who can demonstrate to being actively look for employment or training, poverty worsened. This is largely due to the lack of a long-term strategy and reliance on emergency solutions instead of investing in accessible social housing. In 2023, the Caisse d'allocations familiales (CAF), the public body responsible for distributing social benefits in France, paid its usual Christmas bonus to nearly 2.3 million low-income households receiving minimum social benefits. Notably, there was a 35% increase in the bonus for single-parent families.[1] While this bonus is a good example of progress in poverty eradication, other legislative measures, such as a pension reform and the immigration bill mentioned above, have increased precariousness for certain groups, leading to significant civil unrest. The Human Rights League criticises the government's stigmatisation of the poorest people, citing compulsory activities for RSA recipients and revived anti-begging measures, which attempt to hide poverty, particularly in the lead-up to events such as the 2024 Olympic Games. Poverty is also stigmatised by some officials’ neoliberal rhetoric highlighting personal responsibility and ignoring the structural nature of poverty. This echoes a dismissive comment by President Macron, who stated during his first mandate that finding a job is as simple” as crossing the road [2]

The pension reform law of April 2023, which raised the retirement age from 62 to 64 and extended the insurance period to qualify for a full pension, has faced significant criticism. The CGT (a major French Trade Union) argues that the reform will lower pensions, particularly those intended to be 85% of the minimum wage (SMIC) and will not improve employment rates for older workers despite the claims of former Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne. The law has sparked extensive protests, with unions reporting over 1 million demonstrators nationwide and the use of excessive police repression during the marches.[3] The Human Rights League views the pension reform as a further erosion of the welfare state, according to the NSG.[4] Increasing the years required for a full pension disproportionately affects women and others with non-linear career paths, reducing their pension benefits. Another troubling announcement by former prime minister Gabriel Attal was the abolition of the Specific Solidarity Allowance (ASS), which supports unemployed individuals who have exhausted their unemployment benefits.[5] These individuals should be moved to the Active Solidarity Income (RSA) system. Unlike the ASS, the RSA will require to declare 15 hours of activity (job or in training) per week from 2025 to receive support.[6] For the time being, the new government has not yet decided to abolish it. If so, this change, alongside other policies, is expected to further increase poverty among the elderly and vulnerable groups.

The "Zero Unemployment" scheme, an experimental initiative in 68 French territories, aims to tackle long-term unemployment through local action by employing individuals who have been unemployed for over a year in social and solidarity economy roles, such as recycling centres and solidarity grocery stores.[7]

Bewährte Verfahren

The Ligue de l'Enseignement’s “Open Badge” project helps people not in employment, education, or training (NEETs) and school dropouts to transition to apprenticeships through a digital tool that validates skills and competencies not officially recognised by degrees[8]. This programme targets young people from disadvantaged areas, helping them better understand their abilities and career goals and improving their access to training and job opportunities.

[1]Légifrance (2023), “Journal officiel électronique authentifié n° 0290 du 15/12/2023“ :  https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000048567360#:~:text=%27ann%C3%A9e%

20...-,D%C3%A9cret%20n%C2%B0%202023%2D1184%20du%2014%20d%C3%A9cembre%

202023%20portant,de%20l%27allocation%20%C3%A9quivalent%20retraite      

[2]BBC (2018), ”Macron tells young jobseeker: ”I can find you a job by crossing the road“ : Macron tells young jobseeker: 'I can find you a job by crossing the road' (bbc.com)

[3] CGT(2023), ”Reculer l’âge de la retraite va prolonger la précarité des seniors” : https://www.cgt.fr/actualites/france/retraite/mobilisation/reculer-lage-de-la-retraite-vaprolonger-la-precarite-des-seniors

[4] Ligue de l’Enseignement (2023), Retraites : Non à une nouvelle régression des droits sociaux:  Retraites : non à une nouvelle régression des droits sociaux - LDH (ldh-france.org)

[5] Adie-Sociale.fr (2024), ”Fin de l’ASS : qui est concerné ? Quelles conséquences pour les bénéficiaires ?” : Suppression de l'ASS : quels impacts pour les bénéficiaires ? Aide-Sociale.fr

[6] Service-public.fr (2024), ” RSA : expérimentation des 15 heures d’activité dans 29 nouveaux départements à partir de mars 2024” : Prestations sociales -RSA : expérimentation des 15 heures d’activité dans 29 nouveaux départements à partir de mars 2024 | Service-Public.fr

[7] La Ligue de l‘enseignement  (2022), “Rapport d‘activité du centre  https://laligue.org/uploads/sites/2/2023/06/ra2022vf12052023.pdf

[8] Vie-publique (2023), ” Territoires zéro chômeur de longue durée : un pas vers le droit à l’emploi ?”, https://www.vie-publique.fr/eclairage/286834-territoires-zero-chomeur-de-longue-duree-versun-droit-lemploi

Raum für die Organisationen der Zivilgesellschaft

In 2023, the situation regarding civil society space in France significantly worsened. The CIVICUS Monitor classifies France’s civic space as "Narrowed", a status it has held since 2018.[1] The Narrowed classification indicates that, while individuals and civil society organizations can exercise their rights to freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and expression, these rights are often violated through harassment, arrests, or assaults against the critics of those in power. The NSG highlights the excessive force used during protests and political pressure on the media.

 Since the November 2015 ISIS attacks in Paris, France has seen a continuous erosion of civil society space, exacerbated by anti-terrorism measures that have restricted freedoms. Abuses include searches of association offices, bans on demonstration, and summonses to police stations.[2] In October 2023, Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin instructed prefects to ban demonstrations supporting a ceasefire in Palestine out of fear that these gatherings could be perceived as supporting the terrorist organization Hamas. However, the State Council ruled he had no authority to do this. Both regional and departmental prefects still followed the directive, but courts suspended many of their orders. The Human Rights League and other organisations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, condemned these violations of the right to demonstrate. (source) (10) Similar restrictions occurred after the police shooting of Nahel Merzouk in June 2023,[3] and bans and police repression increased significantly during protests.[4] This trend suggests a worrying suppression of civil society mobilisation, the NSG underlines. The violent repression of civil disobedience in France has intensified, particularly during the unauthorized Sainte-Soline protests against mega basins[5] which critics argue benefit agricultural businesses at the expense of water resources. According to the Human Rights League, peaceful demonstrators and elected officials were targeted, and emergency services were prevented from providing assistance.[6] The violence included the use of military-grade weapons and left 200 people injured, of whom 47 were reportedly hurt by security forces during the demonstrations of the 25 March. Similar excessive force was observed during the “yellow vests” movement.

The Republican Commitment Contract (CER), introduced by the 2021 “anti-separatism law”, has been criticised by civil society organisations for undermining the freedom of association. The CER requires associations seeking state subsidies to align with “republican values”, which the some CSOs see as an illiberal drift that stifles protest actions and threatens democratic freedoms.[7] There has been a notable increase in the administrative dissolutions of associations and CSOs, with almost the same number - 39 - occurring between 1970 and 2017 under 6 different presidents as under the current Macron presidency - which were 37.[8] This trend is concerning given that freedom of association is a fundamental principle constitutionalised by the decision of the French Constitutional Council on 16 July 1971. In March 2023, the Minister of the Interior announced the dissolution of the movement "Les Soulèvements de la Terre" under the 2021 ”anti-separatism law“[9]for allegedly using and inciting to violence during the protests against mega-basins at Sainte-Soline. Several demonstrators were prosecuted, and five faced charges solely for participating in the mobilisation, even though no violent actions were attributed to them.

The Human Rights League has expressed significant concerns over the criminalization of social movements and activists and over restrictions on the freedom to demonstrate. The league also launched a petition to end the dangerous tactics used by police during demonstrations[10]. In April 2023, Interior Minister Darmanin suggested that public aid allocated to the Human Rights League might be reconsidered due to its actions and statements following the events. In response, the Human Rights League requested that President Macron publicly condemn these remarks.[11] In defence of the Human Rights League, the European Civic Forum, Greenpeace France, and Amnesty International France, along with the Coalition Libertés Associatives, issued a collective declaration against the attacks on freedom of association and pluralist democracy.[12] The petition against the dissolution of "Les Soulèvements de la Terre" gathered over 70,000 signatures. On November 9, 2023, the State Council overturned the dissolution, ruling that the sanction was not proportionate to the actions in question. The court argued that, while it condemned provocation to violence against property, this did not justify the dissolution in the absence of calls to violence against individuals.[13]

Numerous organisations, including the Défenseur des droits, the Council of Europe, the European Commission, and UN bodies, have raised serious concerns about France's troubling shift over civil liberties. The 2023 annual report by the Défenseur des droits highlights a concerning trivialisation of rights and freedoms in France.[14] Complaints have risen by 10%, indicating a deterioration in the rule of law. Key issues include increases in discrimination, challenges in accessing rights due to the shift to digital services, and violations of the rights of foreigners and children. The report also notes a rise in complaints over whistle-blowers and discriminatory identity checks.

[1] Civicus (2023), France monitor : https://monitor.civicus.org/country/france/

[2] Ligue des droits de l’Homme (2023), ”L’interdiction générale des rassemblements en faveur de la paix” : https://www.ldh-france.org/linterdiction-generale-des-rassemblements-en-faveur-de-la-paix/

[3] Le Monde (2023), ”Death of Nahel M. : French police officer who shot teen dead realeased under supervision” : https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2023/11/15/death-of-nahel-m-french-police-officerwho-shot-teen-dead-released-under-supervision_6257947_7.html

[4] Civic space watch.eu (2023), ”France: After riots spread across the country, international actors express concerns over police violence in France” : https://civicspacewatch.eu/france-after-riots-spread-across-the-country-international-actors-express-concerns-over-police-violence-in-france/

[5] Large, artificial reservoirs designed to store water for agricultural irrigation during periods of drought.

[6] Civic Space Watch (2023), “FRANCE: Police met environmental protests in Sainte-Soline with unprecedented violence“ :  https://civicspacewatch.eu/france-police-clash-with-environmental-activists-in-sainte-soline/

[7] Vie-publique (2021), Loi du 24 août 2021 confortant le respect des principes de la République: Loi séparatisme, respect des principes de la République 24 août 2021 | vie-publique.fr

[8] FranceInter (2023), ”Infographies - Jamais autant d’organisations n’ont été dissoutes que depuis l’élection d’Emmanuel Macron” : INFOGRAPHIES - Jamais autant d'organisations n'ont été dissoutes que depuis l'élection d'Emmanuel Macron | France Inter (radiofrance.fr)

[9] Le Monde (2023), ”Sainte-Soline : le ministère de l’intérieur engage la dissolution du mouvement Les Soulèvements de la Terre” : https://www.lemonde.fr/planete/article/2023/03/29/sainte-soline-le-ministere-de-l-interieur-engage-la-dissolution-du-mouvement-les-soulevements-de-la-terre_6167390_3244.html

[10] Ligue des droits de l’Homme (2023) ”Stop violences policières : mobilisez-vous !” : Stop violences policières : mobilisez-vous ! - LDH (ldh-france.org)

[11] LesEchos (2023), ”Les propos de Gérard Darmanin sur la LDH créent la polémique” : https://www.lesechos.fr/politique-societe/gouvernement/les-propos-de-gerald-darmanin-surla-ldh-creent-la-polemique-1932899

[12] LaCoalition (2023), ””Nous continuerons”, communiqué collectif de soutien à la LDH” : https://www.lacoalition.fr/Nous-continuerons-communique-collectif-de-soutien-a-la-LDH

[13] Conseil-Etat (2023), ”Soulèvements de la Terre, GALE, Alvarium, CRI : le Conseil d‘Etat précise les critères justifiant la dissolution d‘une association ou d‘un groupement“ : https://www.conseil-etat.fr/actualites/soulevements-de-la-terre-gale-alvarium-cri-le-conseil-d-etat-precise-les-criteres-justifiant-la-dissolution-d-une-association-ou-d-un-groupement

[14] Defenseurdesdroits (2024), ”Rapport annuel d’activité 2023 : La banalisation des atteintes aux droits et libertés inquiète la Défenseure des droits” : https://www.defenseurdesdroits.fr/rapport-annuel-dactivite-2023-la-banalisation-des-atteintes-aux-droits-et-libertes-inquiete-la-597

Zugang zu nachhaltiger Mobilität und Verkehrsarmut 

The NSG's members note progress in just-transition policies, such as increased reimbursements for eco-friendly commuting and significant investments in cycling infrastructure. However, rising fares for trains and other forms of public transport are exacerbating social inequities and limiting access to sustainable transit. Uncertainties over funding are raising concerns about future affordability and accessibility.

In 2023, train tickets prices in France rose by an average of 5%, and further increases are expected, of about 7.6% in 2024 and 4% in both 2025 and 2026.[1] This rise in fares could limit access to rail transport, which remains crucial for sustainable travel, while not necessarily improving services. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition noted that fare increases are moderated by a state-imposed fare shield, but TGV prices rose 13% in 2023, while inflation was 6.2%. In February 2023, the government announced a €100 billion plan to modernise the rail network by 2040, with an annual allocation of €500 million. [2] However, only a third of this budget will come from the state. The rest will come from regions, the EU, the private sector, and the funds of the national railway company (SNCF).[3] The vagueness of the plan's funding sources is causing concern not only among the rail unions, but also in the Senate, where a significant majority fears that the plan will pave the way for the progressive – and, ultimately, total – privatisation of SNCF.[4] This could either reduce access to rail services or lead to higher ticket prices to pay for new investments.

In 2023, public transport fares, especially in the Paris region, increased significantly. The price of a monthly Navigo pass rose by 11.8% to €84.10, while a weekly pass jumped by 31.6% to €30. This increase was partially offset by a €200 million plan from the state to support public transport, including a tariff shield limiting future increases to inflation plus 1%.[5] By the end of 2023, a new agreement was signed between the State and the regional transport authority (Île-de-France Mobilités - IDFM), which aimed to preserve residents' purchasing power by providing additional resources for the transport network and raising the tourist stay tax, set by the national government. Local authorities also pledged to increase their contributions to transport networks.[6]  However, a driver shortage has caused significant disruptions, including long waits and service cancellations. In March 2023, there were 6,600 vacancies from the public transport company of the Ile de France region (RATP), including 2,700 for bus drivers. Low wages and the demanding nature of the job have made it less attractive.[7]

The French government made key investments in 2023 to boost sustainable mobility. The expanded Sustainable Mobility Package now offers employees up to €800 a year if they choose eco-friendly commuting options, such as non-motorized personal vehicles and car-sharing[8]. Public sector employees can receive up to €300 per year, and the package can be combined with reimbursements for public transport. The "Cycling and Walking Plan 2023-2027" [9] was launched with a €2 billion budget and the aim of overhauling French cycling habits. Goals include training 850,000 children a year, providing financial support for bike purchases, and building 100,000 kilometres of secure cycling paths by 2030. The plan also seeks to develop a comprehensive cycling economy, incorporating cycling into sectors such as tourism and delivery services.

[1] Sénat (2023), ”Augmentations des tarifs des billets de train et plan d’investissement pour le ferroviaire” : https://www.senat.fr/questions/base/2023/qSEQ230306010.html

[2]Public Sénat (2023). ”Le plan ferroviaire à 100 milliards d’euros est accueilli avec vigilance au Sénat“: https://www.publicsenat.fr/actualites/politique/le-plan-ferroviaire-a-100-milliards-d-euros-est-accueilli-avec-vigilance-au#:~:text=vigilance%20au%20S%C3%A9nat-,Le%20plan%20ferroviaire%20%C3%A0%20100%20milliards%20d'euros%20est%20accueilli,sur%20le%20mode%20de%20financement.

[3] Sudouest.fr avec AFP (2023), ”Transport : le gouvernement distribue les premiers crédits du plan à 100 milliards d’euros pour le ferroviaire” : https://www.sudouest.fr/economie/transports/transport-le-gouvernement-distribue-les-premiers-credits-du-plan-a-100-milliards-d-euros-pour-le-ferroviaire-17891433.php

[4] Fédération CGT des services publics (2021), ”La SNCF doit rester  100 %“ : publique: Fédération CGT des services publics : La SNCF doit rester 100% publique (cgtservicespublics.fr)

[5] Le Parisien (2022), ”Passe Navigo : vers un abonnement mensuel à 84,10 euros en janvier, une hausse de 11,8 %”:  https://www.leparisien.fr/info-paris-ile-de-france-oise/transports/tarif-du-navigo-vers-un-abonnement-mensuel-a-8410-euros-en-janvier-en-hausse-de-118-06-12-2022-T5WU2A4HENGJVIIT7JR3WEAK2M.php

[6] Ile de France mobilités (2023),“ Le passe Navigo coûtera 86,40 € en 2024. Pourquoi?” : https://www.iledefrance-mobilites.fr/actualites/passe-navigo-augmentation-pourquoi

[7] The conversation (2023), ”Pénurie de main-d’œuvre : mais où sont donc passés les conducteurs de bus ?” :  https://theconversation.com/penurie-de-main-doeuvre-mais-ou-sont-donc-passes-les-conducteurs-de-bus-202065#:~:text=Le%20manque%20de%20conducteurs%20reste,principalement%2C%20du%20manque%20de%20candidats

[8] Entreprendre.Service-Public (2024),”Sustainable Mobility Package“ : Sustainable Mobility Package (FMD) | Entreprendre.Service-Public.fr

[9] Info.gouv (2023), Le Plan vélo et marche 2023-2027 est lancé: France’s 2023-2027 Cycling and Walking Plan is LaunchedLEVA-EU