French Associations Urge Suspension of RSA Reform Over 'Free Labor' Concerns
The proposed reform mandates 15 hours of weekly activity for RSA recipients, raising fears of exploitation among vulnerable populations.
- The reform, part of the 2023 'full employment' law, requires RSA recipients to engage in 15 hours of weekly activity starting January 2025.
- Critics warn that the reform could lead to 'free labor' and undermine job creation by putting RSA recipients in competition with paid positions.
- Key organizations like Secours Catholique and Emmaüs argue the reform could strip dignity and autonomy from some of France's poorest citizens.
- An evaluation by the Ministry of Labor is expected before the end of the year, as the reform is currently being trialed in 47 departments.
- Approximately 1.82 million RSA recipients, affecting 3.65 million people including families, are impacted by this reform.