Poll: 85% of French believe their country is in decline

PARIS, France — PARIS — A survey conducted by Ipsos-BVA in partnership with CESI École d'Ingénieurs found that 85% of French respondents believe their country is in decline. While 57% think the downturn can still be reversed, 28% consider it permanent. When asked about the national mood, 52% of participants identified with an "angry and protest-prone France," and another 46% described themselves as part of an "angry France." Only 2% said they felt satisfied and calm. Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, 79% of respondents said they expect major changes in how the country is governed, and 53% said they would prefer a political figure with new ideas and methods to come to power. Purchasing power topped the list of campaign issues at 46%, followed by security, public services and social protection, each cited by 30%. Separately, 96% of respondents identified liberty, 91% fraternity and 90% equality as important values of the Republic.