What do the French really think of French politics?

What do the French really think about French politics? To discuss this topic, I will use 2 articles: an article by William Galibert for RTL, an article from Presse Océan for Ouest France, and results from Science Po's political confidence barometer.

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First, the reference in terms of the French's confidence in politics is the "Barometer of Political Confidence" from Science Po. This academic survey, conducted annually for 11 years, gives us a precious overview of French perceptions and attitudes towards politics. The subjects explored range from self-confidence, confidence in others, confidence in institutions and political personnel, to the relationship with democracy, its principles, and its operation in France.

The latest editions of this survey have shown that the COVID-19 crisis has had a significant impact on the French's confidence in politics. Uncertainties around the vaccination campaign, for example, have been linked to political and social distrust. Questioning the same people before and after the lockdown has allowed us to grasp the evolution of this confidence, and to test the effect of the health crisis on the perception of politics.

On the other hand, a growing concern for the security of local elected officials is being felt among the French. According to a political barometer from the Odoxa institute, two-thirds of the French believe that the security of mayors is not well assured. Lately, there have been several local French officials who have been assaulted. We observe a 15% increase in attacks on municipal officials in 2022. This number in 2023 will certainly be larger.

This has even led to a demand for stronger sanctions for those who commit violence against elected officials. This feeling of insecurity may also reflect a certain affection for local elected officials, those who are closest to the population. The French have more trust and appreciate their local elected officials, like mayors for example.

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Finally, the last article poignantly describes the feelings of the French towards their political leaders. Many feel ignored, think that politicians only serve their own interests, and that they talk a lot but act little.

However, there is still hope. As I have previously said, the French still seem attached to their institutions and appreciate their local elected officials, those who are closest to them. In addition, despite a general distrust, a small improvement is observed concerning the perceived honesty of elected officials.

Thus, a complex picture is emerging. The French oscillate between a certain distrust and a will to believe in their elected officials. They are hard-nosed, they lack indulgence, but they always seem to want to keep a flame, even if it is flickering. As in any complicated love story, the future will probably depend on more convincing proofs of love from political personnel.