French Social and Solidarity Economy Sector Voices Strong Concerns Over 2026 Budget Cuts

The social and solidarity economy (ESS) sector in France has raised serious concerns regarding the 2026 budget, following the National Assembly's near-unanimous rejection of the revenue part of the finance bill on November 22. This rejection has led to uncertainty about the budget, although it is expected that the Senate’s upcoming public examination starting November 27 will revert many changes, likely aligning closer to the government’s original plan which has faced criticism from the ESS sector.

David Cluzeau, president of the Union of Employers of the ESS, characterized the situation as a “budget of general impoverishment,” emphasizing that austerity measures seem to spare no part of the ESS. The sector encompasses cooperatives, mutuals, associations, foundations, and social integration companies—all committed to solidarity and serving the common good.

The ESS’s worries stem from anticipated cuts that could impair the funding and operations of these entities, which often rely heavily on public financial support to carry out social and economic missions. The context of the uncertain budget raises fears that cooperation, mutual aid, and social inclusion initiatives might suffer setbacks at a time when such efforts are critical.

While the budget battle unfolds politically, the ESS sector stands united in demanding reconsideration to avoid curtailing their contributions to French society. Cluzeau’s statement highlights the depth of the problem: “No sector within the ESS is spared from the austerity measures,” underscoring the widespread impact of these budget constraints.

As the Senate prepares for its review, the sector watches closely, hoping for a budget that protects and sustains this vital part of the French economy and social fabric. The ESS’s role remains crucial to fostering economic solidarity and supporting vulnerable populations across France.