The Montpellier Information Center on Women’s and Family Rights (CIDFF) will close its doors this Thursday, following the same action as the thirteen other branches in Occitanie. This far-reaching action aims to raise awareness among the public and policymakers about the growing financial difficulties of these essential centers, due to delays in the payment of state subsidies and budgetary constraints that threaten the very survival of their activities. Let’s dive into the details of this temporary closure. Context and Impact of Delayed Subsidies In Occitanie, the CIDFF network is in turmoil over a worrying situation: the delay in state subsidies threatens the smooth running of their services. The draft budget bill, adopted late for 2025, has still not revealed the budget allocations for these centers, which are crucial for an egalitarian society. As Maïtena Cassat, director of the Hérault CIDFF, points out, “we still don’t know how much we’ll receive.” This financial uncertainty puts the center in a precarious position, despite prudent management of its local finances.
Consequences of a Deficit Budget
The financial situation of the Hérault CIDFF is exacerbated by the €238 gross Ségur bonus paid to employees in 2024, which unfortunately was not accompanied by any compensation from the State. For the first time in the association’s history, a provisional deficit budget for 2025 was presented. This situation has forced the center to reduce its staff, leaving unfilled vacancies and thus reducing its capacity to support vulnerable people. Impact on the reception and support of beneficiaries With attendance reaching 17,000 people
In 2024, 47% of which are for domestic violence, the Hérault CIDFF plays a crucial role. Budgetary restrictions are leading to a reduction in office hours, meaning that fewer women will be able to access information about their rights. It is precisely these women, often in already difficult situations, who will suffer from the reduction in services.
The CIDFF network in danger With 28 employees currently, the Hérault CIDFF is not the only one in difficulty. Nationally, 120 jobs are potentially threatened among the 1,400 professionals in the country. In a social context where the need to support victims of domestic violence has never been more crucial, this alert must resonate strongly with political decision-makers.
A call for support and awareness
This Thursday’s closure is an act of resistance and awareness of the economic fragility of a vital institution. To learn more about other closures affecting Montpellier, such as those caused by road infrastructure and other structures, see the details here.