The French government spends 33 billion euros each year on what it calls "territorial cohesion," according to a report by the Cour des comptes, as reported by L'Express. This funding includes 18.5 billion euros directly budgeted for the program and an additional 15 billion euros in special fiscal measures, totaling 33 billion euros annually. The report states that 88 percent of this funding is directed toward housing assistance and emergency accommodation. The goal of these programs is to reduce disparities between different regions of France by supporting housing, infrastructure, and social services. Despite a 33 percent increase in the national security budget and a 41 percent rise in municipal police funding between 2016 and 2024, crime has risen by 6.5 percent during the same period. The Cour des comptes points out inefficiencies in the use of public funds, such as vacant social housing units while families wait for years for suitable homes, and overcrowded schools located near underused educational facilities. The report also criticizes the National Agency for the Cohesion of Territories, noting that it and other related bodies suffer from poor coordination and have seen staff reductions in recent years. The report highlights a disconnect between where schools are located and actual population needs. Some urban areas face overcrowding, while other regions have underused school buildings. In rural areas, schools with declining student numbers continue to operate, increasing the cost per student. Similarly, social housing remains unoccupied while families wait for years to find suitable housing. The Cour des comptes describes the system as inefficient, unable to match the supply of resources with actual demand. The report calls for a systematic review of whether the housing provided aligns with the real needs of those seeking assistance. While security funding has grown significantly, the rise in crime suggests that increased spending does not always result in better outcomes. The report also points out that the distribution of police officers is uneven, with some high-crime areas having fewer officers per resident than areas with lower crime rates. The Cour des comptes emphasizes the lack of coordination between different levels of government, leading to duplicated efforts and delays in addressing key issues. It calls for a complete rethinking of policies aimed at strengthening territorial cohesion and improving the attractiveness of different regions. The report urges a thorough evaluation of existing programs to ensure they are effective and responsive to the needs of the population.