In recent years, fragility-affected areas of France have faced widening economic disparities, educational inequalities, and social tensions among marginalized communities, including immigrants and minorities. These challenges underscore the pressing need for initiatives aimed at promoting greater equity and inclusion across the country. As the poorest district of mainland France, the Seine-Saint-Denis district cumulates all the above challenges, compounded by stigma targeted at a youth segment of the French-born population who are discriminated against because of their ethnic origins.
Economic Indicators: Poverty Rate: 28.6% (National), 44% (Aubervilliers)
Education: Report upon report depict a situation of education characterized by neglect, teacher shortages, falling literacy levels, and inadequate funding, despite efforts by local communities
Gender Inequality: 12% of the population are immigrants. Women in the workplace still earn 24.4% less than men. Increasing rates of gender-based violence
Youth Issues: High levels of youth unemployment and disengagement from education and training. Youth involvement in gangs and criminal activities has become a national cliché belying the fact that there is much more positive energy among the youths of the district than one will find in sensational news report
Peace and Security: Seine-Saint-Denis continues to report some of the highest crime rates in metropolitan France, with 76.7 offences per 1,000 inhabitants recorded in 2024.
WPDI’s initiatives in Seine-Saint-Denis aim to address the root causes of poverty and violence through education, entrepreneurship, and conflict resolution. By establishing the Community Learning Center (CLC) in Aubervilliers, WPDI provides resources and training to empower local youth and vulnerable groups, fostering positive social change and economic opportunities.
WPDI’s Initiatives
- ICT Training: Offering courses in Information & Communications Technology to improve digital literacy and employability.
- Entrepreneurship Programs: Supporting the creation of small businesses through training and grants.
- Conflict Resolution: Educating community members on conflict mediation and non-violent communication. Sessions are delivered at the CLC and schools.
Discover WPDI France’s Annual Report EN
Discover WPDI France’s Annual Report FR
Key numbers to understand our impact in France in 2024
1
Community Learning Center located in Aubervilliers
71
Individuals Trained in Business and Entrepreneurship
16
Total SMEs supported by WPDI France
62
Women Livelihood Program Participants
60
Individuals Trained in Conflict Resolution Education (CRE)