The French Social Impact Bonds, An Innovation Between Performative Discourse and Democratic Retreat?
In search of new answers to meet major social needs, the French State is currently testing an innovative form of public-private contract inspired by Social Impact Bonds. Our article examines the driving forces behind the creation of these contracts in France and the potential consequences of the government’s choices. Our study shows the powerful influence of the international theoretical and ideological context on the determination of new instruments of public action. It thus sheds original light on the arbitrations made by French governments in favor of these contracts, as well as on the opportunities and risks inherent in these choices.