Job losses, the disappearance of public services and local shops, the collapse of property prices, and even the breakdown of social ties: the potential sources of discontent in the French territories are numerous. Are some factors more decisive than others? In this CAE Note, we look at recent changes in the local environment of individuals and their impact on participation in the Yellow Vest movement, on declared ill-being and on the variation in the abstention rate during presidential elections. We recommend redefining the objectives of territorial policies in order to give more space to well-being criteria, favouring locally initiated projects rather than centralised policies and promoting access to services, whether private or public, in order to preserve social ties in the territories.
To access this note, please click here.