Public opinion has hardened towards the unemployed. There are now 48% of the population who think that job seekers do not really make an effort to get a job, according to a recent survey co-conducted by the Elabe Institute and Unédic – the joint association which manages the compensation scheme for unemployed people. The percentage is up three points from the previous study of the same type, conducted in June. According to her, “Some suspicion” is progressing, probably in line with the economic recovery.
Released on December 17, the results of this “Barometer” are based on a survey carried out from August 31 to September 27 with a representative sample of some 3,000 individuals of at least 15 years old living in metropolitan France. From this exercise, it emerges that 43% of participants attribute the “Unemployment liability” job seekers, seven points more than in the survey conducted in June. In nearly six out of ten cases, respondents consider that the unemployed have difficulty finding an activity “Because they do not make any concessions in their research” (+ 3 points). They are also 55% to judge that those registered with Pôle emploi do not work because“They would risk losing their allowance” (+ 3 points also compared to June). Finally, the idea that “The unemployed are assisted” is shared by 39% of those questioned.
Increased pressure
This suspicious look is “Paradoxical”, because at the same time, an overwhelming majority of the population considers that unemployment constitutes “A situation more suffered than chosen” : Three quarters of those polled are, in fact, of this opinion – a proportion which is however three points lower than that measured in the previous baromer. For two-thirds of survey participants, pointing to Pôle Emploi is “A fatality, a twist of fate” of which one is a victim.
Those “Representations” ambivalent, where benevolence coexists with pejorative appreciations, are based on a “Partial knowledge” of reality, according to the study. A euphemism to indicate that the degree of ignorance is reaching significant levels about women and men seeking employment. Just one example: 30% of people questioned “Underestimate” the average monthly amount of unemployment benefit and 34% on “Overestimate” (the “Correct answer” being 990 euros).
The publication of these data comes as the pressure is increasing on job seekers, in accordance with the course set by Emmanuel Macron in his speech on November 9. In 2022, the 600 Pôle Emploi agents, responsible for ensuring that the unemployed take the necessary steps to be hired, will increase their controls by 25%, particularly in sectors where companies are struggling to recruit workers. of work, lack of candidates. Within the public operator, this orientation is criticized by staff representatives: the verifications will be carried out on “Shorter deadlines”, which is likely to be a problem when discouraged job seekers need to be “Remobilized because it takes time and a relationship of trust”, as explained by Bernie Billey (CFDT). “People registered with us may have more difficulty in justifying their research”, adds Sylvie Espagnolle (CGT).
You have 30.09% of this article to read. The rest is for subscribers only.