Everything is complicated
The Institut d’Estadística de Catalunya (Idescat) published the results of the 2023 living conditions survey on Monday. Although the first headline that emerges is that the rate of risk of poverty or social exclusion, with 24.4%, it was three tenths below that of 2022, another less hopeful one immediately appears: the percentage of the population living in a situation of severe material and social deprivation is increasing (close to 9% against 8% of the previous year). Some indicators on the level of this deprivation in households help to better understand what we are talking about: 36% of the population cannot take care of unforeseen expenses of more than 800 euros, 20% cannot keep the household at a adequate temperature, 12% accumulate delays in the payment of housing-related expenses and nearly 30% cannot afford even one week of vacation a year. Data that contrast with the increase in the number of families that easily make it to the end of the month: 53.1%, up from 51.2% in 2022. This is called polarization: the poor are increasingly poorer and the rich are also poorer. The application of 21% VAT on the receipt of electricity and the possible increase in the water tariff will not help the most vulnerable people. Everything costs a lot and every day more.
A complex reality
The current social and economic reality is complex and full of challenges. Data from the 2023 Living Conditions Survey show a worrying situation, with an increase in severe material and social deprivation and a growing polarization between the richest and the poorest. These data highlight the need to take measures to address these inequalities and guarantee a fairer and more equitable society.
Unforeseen expenses
One of the indicators that reflect material deprivation is the ability to cope with unforeseen expenses. According to the survey, 36% of the population cannot afford unexpected expenses of more than 800 euros. This situation highlights the economic fragility of many families and the difficulty of dealing with unforeseen situations.
Difficulties in maintaining the home
Another relevant indicator is the ability to keep the home at a suitable temperature. According to the survey, 20% of the population cannot keep the home at a suitable temperature. This situation highlights the difficulties that many families have in meeting their basic needs and guaranteeing an adequate standard of living.
Delays in the payment of expenses related to housing
Another worrying aspect is the accumulation of delays in the payment of housing-related expenses. According to the survey, 12% of the population accumulates delays in the payment of expenses related to housing. This situation highlights the economic difficulties that many families face and their vulnerability in the housing market.
Difficulty enjoying holidays
Finally, the survey highlights the difficulty that many families have in enjoying a holiday. Close to 30% of the population cannot afford even one week of vacation a year. This situation reflects social and economic inequalities and the difficulty of accessing opportunities for leisure and rest.
conclusion
Data from the 2023 Living Conditions Survey highlight a worrying reality: the rise of severe material and social deprivation and the polarization between the richest and the poorest. It is necessary to take measures to address these inequalities and ensure a fairer and more equitable society. Everything costs a lot and more every day, and it is everyone’s responsibility to work to change this reality.
