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National pride is evidently strong in France, as a recent survey reveals that French citizens remain largely proud of their nationality, unaffected by years of anti-Western narratives.
Unlike the situation in Britain, where national pride has noticeably waned, a study conducted by Destin Commun shows that a significant 78 percent of French people express pride in their nationality.
“This sense of pride is shared consistently across generations and is strongly supported by voters of all political affiliations,” the pollster remarked.
The topic of nationalism, however, presents a more complex picture. Destin Commun narrowly defines nationalism as the belief that “the French are superior to other nationalities,” rather than just prioritizing national interests or favoring one’s country.
Findings indicate that only 32 percent of respondents subscribe to the notion of French superiority. Meanwhile, 68 percent maintain their national pride without asserting that the French are better than others.
Interestingly, the younger generation, particularly young men aged 18 to 24, shows a stronger inclination toward nationalism, with half believing in their country’s superiority. In contrast, only 31 percent of young women share this view.
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.”
