Social bond assessment proposed to fortify and counteract their deterioration
In a Wobble: Our Social Ties, a Crucial Element for Living Together
According to a report by Impact Tank's think tank, presented at its impact measurement summit on May 16 in Paris, the social bond—the very glue that keeps us from falling apart—appears to be on shaky ground. The report, titled "(Re)Building Our Connections: The Impact of Social Bond in Territories," warns of deepening inequalities, higher levels of populism, and the need for immediate action.
"Our priority is to nudge public decision-makers and stir the heart of civil society, in this era of widening rifts and burgeoning mistrust," says Tony Bernard, Impact Tank's general director and one of the report's authors.
The report identifies a staggering statistic: 12% of French citizens live in a state of relational isolation, a figure backed by the "Solitudes 2024" survey by the Foundation of France. Single parenthood, unemployment, illness, disability, old age, and a pervasive sense of distrust towards each other and institutions contribute to this isolation. Indeed, almost 80% of the populace declare they have little faith in their fellow human beings, a vivid snapshot from the 2024 Fraternity Barometer.
Tackling such an issue requires ingenuity and a multi-pronged approach, encompassing community programs, digital platforms, education, support networks, and policy changes. Understanding the specifics of the Impact Tank's proposals would shed more light on the path forward. But in the meantime, the urgency is clear: bridging the gap between us is no small task, and it demands action.
In this context, it's crucial to address the impact of social isolation on overall health and wellness, including mental health. The report suggests that innovative strategies in community programs, digital platforms, education, support networks, and policy changes could potentially help combat this growing issue, as the widening rifts among us call for immediate action in the realm of science and health-and-wellness, with a particular focus on mental health.
