Summary
Highlights
Social protection is defined as a set of collective providence mechanisms designed to help individuals cope with the financial consequences of social risks. Social risks, also called life risks, can be positive (e.g., maternity) or negative (e.g., illness, unemployment). The concept of social risk evolves with time, with new risks like dependency emerging.
Social protection aims to ensure social cohesion and peace by reducing inequalities and providing common benefits. It socializes life risks, reinforcing solidarity (e.g., the healthy funding the sick). It also combats inequalities stemming from primary income distribution through mechanisms like social minima, promoting equality and social justice.
There are three main models of social protection. The Bismarkian (insurance) model, originating in late 19th-century Germany, is corporatist, benefiting specific professional groups through social contributions. Those not working do not have access. The Beveridgean (assistance) model, developed during World War II, is based on resource conditions rather than contributions, providing for those in need, funded by taxes. This model can be minimal (e.g., UK unemployment benefits) or maximal (e.g., some Nordic countries with extensive universal protection). In reality, systems like France's are hybridized, combining elements of both insurance and assistance.
In 2007, a significant portion of social protection spending in France (and increasingly in other countries like Italy) was dedicated to old age (retirement), nearly 45%, with projections for this to rise due to an aging population. Health (illness, hospitalization, sickness benefits) accounted for over a third. Maternity and family policy represented 9.2%. Employment-related protection, mainly unemployment benefits, was 6%. Housing (personalized housing aid) was also 6%. Finally, social exclusion, including minimum income schemes like the RMI (soon RSA), falls under assistance, providing income to those without resources.