France's social safety net: Can it afford to be so generous?

Intelligence summary

Created in the aftermath of World War II, France's social security system has become one of the pillars of French society, providing everything from healthcare and family benefits to pensions. But with an ageing population and mounting deficits, this ambitious model is facing a major financial test. We look at how the system works, why it is so deeply valued by the French and whether the country can afford to keep its promise of protecting everyone – from cradle to grave.