- An opinion poll conducted by the Elabe institute reveals that 85% of French respondents believe the country is in decline.
- As the next election approaches, two-thirds of citizens show a keen interest in the presidential campaign.
- Looking ahead to 2027, Jordan Bardella is calling for a referendum to be held on immigration policy.
A widespread perception of national weakening
A recent opinion study carried out by the Elabe institute highlights deep-seated anxiety within French society. According to the data collected, 85% of those surveyed consider France to be in a state of decline today. This figure reflects a particularly entrenched pessimism, affecting a large proportion of socio-professional categories and political leanings. This perception appears to reflect a form of disenchantment with the country’s economic and social developments, as well as a latent fear regarding France’s loss of influence on the international stage. This sense of national decline has now established itself as a major structural feature of the current political landscape.
Sustained interest in democratic life
Despite this bleak assessment of the country’s general state, citizens do not appear to be turning away from public affairs. With approximately eight months to go until the next presidential election, the French public’s attention to the electoral contest remains particularly sharp. Indeed, the study indicates that two out of three French people say they are interested in the upcoming presidential campaign. This paradox between the perception of decline and intellectual engagement in the debate suggests that voters still see the ballot box as a potential lever for change. The marked interest in political debate demonstrates that the election is still perceived as a pivotal moment for the nation’s future.
Opposition proposals in the face of doubt
In this context of doubt and expectation, opposition forces are beginning to structure their campaign themes and future electoral promises. Jordan Bardella, president of the National Rally, recently clarified part of his strategy for the 2027 election. He expressed his desire to use direct democracy to decide on sovereign issues that he considers priorities. Jordan Bardella specifically wants to organise a referendum on immigration should his camp win the next presidential election. This proposal aims to address the concerns of a section of the electorate that closely links the issue of migration to the feeling of national decline.
Also read Présidentielle 2027 : les forces politiques se structurent face au Rassemblement national
A campaign marked by anticipation and reform
The convergence of this data outlines a singular political atmosphere — caught between bitter lucidity and a desire to remain an actor in the decision-making process. The coming months will be crucial for the various candidates, who must transform this sense of decline into audible and credible recovery projects. The ability of the Elysée contenders to respond to this collective anxiety will determine the momentum of voting intentions. The public debate thus seems to be moving towards a confrontation between several visions of restoring the state’s sovereignty and prestige, in a country where the demand for renewal has never seemed so pressing.
