lemonde.fr
French Employee Absenteeism Soars to 23.3 Days in 2024
A June 2024 Ayming report reveals French employee absenteeism reached 23.3 days in 2024, up from 12 in 2012, costing €4,000 per employee annually; mental health issues are a rising concern, now the second leading cause of medical leave.
- What are the primary causes and economic consequences of the dramatic rise in French employee absenteeism in 2024?
- French employee absenteeism surged to 23.3 days per year in 2024, up from 12 days in 2012, according to a June 13th Ayming report surveying 1,000 private sector HR professionals. 49% reported high or very high absenteeism, with 55% lacking adequate indicators to address it. This costs companies €4,000 per employee annually.
- How do the findings of the Ayming and Malakoff Humanis reports compare, and what insights do they offer into the relationship between mental health and absenteeism?
- The sharp increase in absenteeism isn't solely due to an aging workforce; non-work-related illnesses, demotivation, personal problems, and burnout are key factors, according to HR professionals. This creates a vicious cycle: increased workload, impacting work conditions, social climate, and motivation, fueling psychosocial risks.
- What systemic changes are needed to effectively address the root causes of increased absenteeism in France, considering the impact on both individual well-being and organizational productivity?
- The rising mental health issues are a significant driver, with mental health conditions representing the second leading cause of medical leave in 2024 at 15%, surpassing workplace accidents and musculoskeletal disorders. Increased willingness to seek help for mental health, particularly among young employees, contributes to this trend, highlighting the urgent need for preventative measures and better support systems within organizations.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the negative consequences of rising absenteeism, highlighting the costs to businesses and the potential for a vicious cycle. While presenting data from multiple sources, the overall tone is alarmist, focusing on the problem rather than solutions. The headline (if any) would likely reinforce this emphasis.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, presenting statistical data and quotes from experts. However, phrases like "inflation des arrêts" (inflation of absences) could be considered slightly loaded, implying a negative connotation. A more neutral phrasing might be 'increase in absences'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the increase in absenteeism and its causes, but omits discussion of potential solutions or preventative measures implemented by companies. While acknowledging the cost to organizations, it lacks data on the effectiveness of existing strategies or government initiatives to address the issue. The impact of remote work and its potential contribution to absenteeism is also not explored.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant increase in employee absenteeism in France, with mental health issues emerging as a major contributor. This directly impacts SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by indicating a decline in the mental health of the workforce and increased work-related stress, which negatively affects their overall well-being and productivity. The rising costs associated with absenteeism further strain healthcare resources.