Recent studies have raised public awareness of an increase in the ?working poor,? a phenomenon especially evident in the United States throughout the prolonged economic growth of the 1990s. The Jesuit institute CERAS (Centre de recherche et d?action sociale) based in Paris is interested in work issues even when unemployment isn?t rising. CERAS is revising and deepening its analysis of the labour market and the extent of poverty. While unemployment in Europe has been dropping over the past few months, more and more people are seeking contractual (temporary or seasonal) or part-time work. While a few freely choose temporary work, for example, during their studies, many seek it by necessity. What are the implications of casual work for society? Addressing this urgent question must include analysing the situation of poor workers. While some consider Europe?s current 9% unemployment rate a triumph, we must not be lulled into complacency. [HL10704]