Solidarity Economy in France Sees 7% Growth Amid Calls for Greater Support
Bernard Devert reports on the growth of the solidarity economy in France and calls for greater societal support for vulnerable populations.
Key Points
- • The solidarity economy grew by 7% in 2024, totaling €29.4 billion in savings.
- • Habitat et Humanisme focuses on housing for vulnerable communities and medical-social support.
- • Collaborative projects with hospitals aim to assist discharged patients.
- • Devert advocates for societal change towards greater solidarity and support for the vulnerable.
In an editorial dated July 7, 2025, Bernard Devert, founder of Habitat et Humanisme, highlighted the substantial growth of the solidarity economy in France, with a reported 7% increase in savings, bringing the total to €29.4 billion by the end of 2024. Devert asserts that this growth is a critical tool in addressing societal inequalities and improving the lives of vulnerable populations. He emphasizes the essential role of Habitat et Humanisme in providing housing solutions and developing a medical-social hub for those facing social challenges, particularly individuals with physical or mental dependencies.
Moreover, Devert discusses collaborative initiatives with hospitals in Lyon that focus on aiding discharged patients, helping them reintegrate into their communities and tackle the issue of social isolation prevalent among those with severe health conditions. He calls for a shift in societal attitudes, urging communities to embrace solidarity and foster a more inclusive and nurturing environment. Through this, Devert envisions a collective effort to uplift marginalized individuals, inspired by the principles of fraternity as discussed by philosopher Régis Debray. In conclusion, he stresses that the solidarity economy can profoundly impact the fight against poverty, provided society commits to supporting and amplifying these initiatives.