In a bold move to address nutritional challenges, French Green Party (EELV) lawmakers are set to propose a new initiative that would see citizens receive a monthly credit of €150 on a so-called “food vital card.” This experimental proposal, aimed at establishing “food social security for all,” will be discussed during the Green Party’s parliamentary session on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
The card, which would be available to everyone, is designed to be used in democratically certified locations, as explained by EELV deputy Boris Tavernier during a recent press conference in Paris. The proposed legislation calls for a five-year trial period and will be the third item on the agenda during the Green Party’s dedicated parliamentary session, a day reserved for them to present their legislative initiatives.
This initiative is envisioned to provide a framework for testing models across all regions, with the goal of building a sustainable food social security system. According to Charles Fournier, the deputy behind the proposal, the scheme would be supported by a national fund, which would subsidize the operation of local food banks. The financial structure of this initiative is designed to be funded 50% by public funds, 25% by local authorities, and 25% through voluntary citizen contributions.
The proposal is not only about providing financial aid; it also seeks to defend what proponents describe as a “fundamental right to food.” It is expected to benefit both consumers, who would gain the freedom to choose their groceries, and farmers, who would receive better compensation for their products, according to Boris Tavernier.
Currently, there are approximately 40 locally initiated food banks in France that facilitate short distribution channels from farmers to consumers, supported by monthly contributions. The proposed fund aims to strengthen these local food banks by providing them with a formal structure and support.
The Green Party has been advocating for the incorporation of the right to food into the French Constitution since May 2024, with the intention of obligating the state to take necessary measures to ensure this right is upheld, as stated by Senator Raymonde Poncet Monge.
This initiative marks a significant step towards addressing food insecurity and improving dietary habits in France, potentially setting a precedent for other nations to follow in the pursuit of nutritional welfare.
