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In a world where national pride often ebbs and flows, France stands out with its unwavering sense of identity. A recent survey conducted by Destin Commun reveals that French citizens continue to hold their national pride in high regard, despite decades of anti-Western sentiment that could have potentially diminished it.
While nations like Britain have witnessed a notable decline in national pride over the years, the situation in France is quite different. The poll indicates that a significant majority, nearly 78 percent, of the French population express pride in their nationality. This sentiment spans across various age groups and political affiliations, showcasing a unified sense of belonging among the French people.
However, the survey also highlights a nuanced perspective on nationalism. Destin Commun’s definition of nationalism, which suggests a belief in the superiority of the French over other nationalities, received mixed responses. Only 32 percent of the respondents agreed with this notion of superiority.
In contrast, a substantial 68 percent of those surveyed maintained their pride in being French without subscribing to the idea that their nationality is superior to others. This distinction emphasizes a more inclusive and balanced form of national pride, one that values cultural identity without undermining other nationalities.
According to the survey, just 32 per cent of the public agreed that the French are superior. In contrast, 68 per cent said they were proud to be French but did not consider the French better than other nationalities.
However, perhaps indicating a rightward shift among the next generation, 50 per cent of young French men aged 18 to 24 said they believe their country is superior to others. On the other hand, only 31 per cent of young women agreed with the statement.
The poll found that the main sources of national pride in France were historical heritage, gastronomy, language, the arts, and regional traditions, cited by around nine in ten people.
This was followed by scientific innovations, the welfare state, and individual freedoms, which were cited by over seven in ten.
French national pride perhaps demonstrates resilience against the modern woke movement, which has sought to denigrate all forms of nationalism in Western countries.
Indeed, during the international moral panic following the death of George Floyd in the United States, French President Emmanuel Macron pushed back against the movement, saying in 2021: “The ‘woke’ culture is something very dangerous, and we shouldn’t bring it to France.”
The liberal leader also pushed back against the statue-smashing iconoclasm of Black Lives Matter, declaring in 2020 that “the Republic will not erase any trace, or any name, from its history… it will not take down any statue.”
Commenting on the findings of the poll, director of Destin Commun Laurence de Nervaux said: “Our survey reveals the contrast between the collectively negative perception of our country and the deep and enthusiastic attachment of our fellow citizens to France and everything they share on a daily basis. Far from the clichés about fractures and divisions, it reveals a meaningful, sub-political reality steeped in human connections.”