The article discusses the issue of non-access to social benefits in Switzerland, highlighting that between 20% and 40% of eligible individuals do not claim their entitled social assistance. This phenomenon was addressed at a recent event in Lausanne organized by the Initiative des villes pour la politique sociale (IVPS) and the national anti-poverty platform. The report 'Rapport social vaudois 2026' confirms these figures, showing specific rates for different types of benefits. The article emphasizes that these benefits are rights that significantly reduce absolute poverty and address financial inequalities faced by women. However, those who do not access them often face difficult choices such as cutting back on healthcare or food, relying on family support, or delaying bill payments, leading to a cycle of debt and hidden poverty, particularly visible in urban areas.
Bias read (Progressive): The article highlights the importance of social benefits in reducing poverty and addressing inequality, emphasizing that these are rights that should be accessed. It criticizes the failure to utilize these benefits and points out the negative consequences of non-access, which aligns with a left-wing




