In 2023, daily compensation for sick leave reached a record amount, marked by a sharp increase in long-term sick leave.
Sick leave, whether short or long, places an increasing burden on the French compensation system. Between the lengthening of careers, the evolution of salaries and the increase in claims, the cost of sick leave has exploded in recent years. A situation which, although influenced by the health crisis, is part of a long-term trend.
A marked increase since 2019
Since 2019, the number of days compensated for sick leave has increased by 3.9% per year, on average, compared to only 2.3% between 2010 and 2019. This increase is explained by a general increase in work stoppages, which whether they are short or long, as well as by an increase in daily allowances following inflation.
In 2023, expenses linked to sick leave reached 10.2 billion euros, compared to 9.6 billion in 2022, according to a study by the Directorate of Research, Studies, Evaluation and Statistics (Drees) , relayed by Le Figaro. This increase, of 6.3% per year on average since 2019, was strongly influenced by the progression of salaries, in particular the increases in the minimum wage, which directly impact the amount of compensation.
Long-term stoppages, representing 7% of compensated stoppages, account for 45% of total expenses. Conversely, short stoppages, although very frequent, represent only 4% of costs.
Seniors and the impact of demographic aging
The aging of the working population is a major factor in this increase. Between 2010 and 2023, the activity rate of 55-64 year olds increased from 43.6% to 61.7%, mechanically increasing the number of compensated time off among seniors.
In 2023, those over 50 represented 29% of compensated stops but accounted for 42% of total expenditure. Their average time off work is significantly longer, reaching up to 54 days per year for 55-59 year olds. Those over 60, although representing a small proportion of employees, saw their number of compensated days triple between 2010 and 2023, going from 8.7 million to 27.9 million, according to BFMTV.
Pension reforms, by increasing the legal retirement age and the contribution period, have also contributed to this dynamic. The increase in working life, associated with often more fragile health conditions, increases the prevalence of prolonged absences.
Sectoral and social disparities
The sectors most affected by sick leave are those where working conditions are the most demanding, both physically and mentally. Industry, construction, health and social action recorded downtime above average.
Women, in particular, are more affected than men. This trend is partly explained by differences in working conditions, household responsibilities and preventive behaviors. Between 2010 and 2023, sick leave increased more quickly among women than among men, a dynamic which also reflects their growing share in the labor market.
