Mathematics are omnipresent in our lives. Whether it's economic decisions, cutting-edge technologies, or our way of analyzing information, they structure our understanding of the world. Yet, in France, while mathematical research is recognized worldwide, its teaching and perception remain marked by inequalities and a lack of appeal. In response to this paradox, CNRS is launching a major citizen consultation titled 'To Math, Citizens!'.
Various studies report a relatively low score of French students in mathematics, highlighting a strong correlation between success in this subject and the social or geographical background of the students. There is also a lack of parity, with a notable underrepresentation of girls in mathematical pathways.
In order to offer all students, as well as their teachers, parents, and the general public, a current, lively, and attractive image of mathematics, the Ministry of National Education, Higher Education, and Research has been organizing the 'Mathematics Week' each year since 2012.
While the 2025 edition will take place from March 10 to 19 on the theme 'Maths Outside the Walls', CNRS invites French people to reflect on the role of mathematics in society.
An unprecedented participatory approach
This consultation, starting this March 10, aims to give everyone a voice. Its goal is twofold: to better understand the expectations and barriers related to mathematics, and to co-construct solutions for broader and more equitable access to this essential discipline.
The process is structured in several stages:
- An online consultation that will remain open until April 30, 2025, with a questionnaire to collect perceptions and proposals;
- Citizen workshops will be organized during the same period by those wishing to contribute to the debate;
- Citizen panels will be formed, bringing together diverse profiles, to develop, from May to July 2025, concrete recommendations to improve access to mathematics.
CNRS commits, at the end of this consultation, to make the results public, propose concrete actions from citizen contributions, and present these recommendations to educational, scientific, and institutional stakeholders.
Christophe Besse, director of the National Institute of Mathematical Sciences and their interactions at CNRS, comments:
'In a context where the level in mathematics tends to deteriorate and access to this discipline remains marked by inequalities, this consultation represents a unique opportunity to imagine together a future where mathematics will be more inclusive, accessible, and valued in all aspects of daily life.'
To help shape the future of mathematics, visit https://consultation-maths.fr/