Inégalités de niveaux de vie des actifs et des retraités français : ce que nous apprend la multi-décomposition de l'indice de Gini

In this paper, we apply a multidimensional decomposition of the Gini index to the active and retired populations in France. The multi-decomposition of an inequality measure allows us to put into perspective the role of social spending and taxation in reducing inequalities simultaneously among active people, among retirees, and between workers and pensioners. However, we question the extent to which this multidimensional inequality indicator is a relevant tool for the study of intergenerational inequalities. Does the multidimensional inequality indicator allow to deliver conclusions regarding retirement policies in the context of an aging population ? In 2007, pensions explained a small proportion of the inequalities, compared with the share of retirees in the sample. Social benefits allow to reduce inequalities of 1,3 % in the population. We also conclude that this inequality measure does not provide a clear picture of the inequalities between active individuals and retirees.