France Could Save Billions by Investing in Poverty Reduction

A new study reveals that addressing poverty with targeted investments could create economic benefits and reduce public spending.

The collective Alerte, comprising 34 associations, estimates the annual cost of poverty in France at 119 billion euros.
An investment of 8 billion euros per year over a decade could significantly reduce poverty, with benefits to public finances.
Current expenditures include 51 billion euros on social benefits and 67 billion euros in indirect costs affecting health, education, and justice.
The study suggests that increased social spending could lead to a virtuous cycle of economic growth and reduced poverty-related expenses.
The findings come as the French government prepares to unveil its 2025 budget, aiming to cut public spending by over 40 billion euros.