A new survey titled “A Crisis of Confidence: French Perspectives on Leadership, National Standing, and War” reveals deep pessimism and widespread dissatisfaction among the French public regarding their leadership and international strategy. The findings are based on a survey commissioned by France-Soir and BonSens.org and conducted by MIS Group on November 30, 2025. The poll surveyed a sample size of 1,200 representative French citizens via an online survey. Results are subject to a statistical margin of error, which is approximately +/- 2.8% for a 50% observed percentage.
Leadership Under Fire and Domestic Disconnect
The data confirms an overwhelming belief that the country and its President are on the wrong path. A severe rejection of President Emmanuel Macron’s leadership is apparent, with 7 out of 10 French citizens (71%) rating him as “bad president,” compared to only 10% who rate him as “a good president”. This negative assessment is mirrored in the overall direction of the country, as 67% believe France is headed in the “wrong direction”.
Dissatisfaction extends beyond policy disagreement and reflects a deep personal disconnect. A majority of the French population (64%) expresses a personal feeling of shame regarding President Macron, a sentiment that goes beyond mere policy disagreement. Furthermore, the public perceives the government’s actions as both divisive and contrary to the national interest.
An alarming 80% believe the actions of Emmanuel Macron and his government will “divide the country”.
Over three-quarters of the population, specifically 77%, feel the government is not acting in the interest of the population.
A Diminished World Standing and Strategic Concerns
The domestic crisis in confidence is mirrored by a perception of declining influence abroad. A majority of 62% of French citizens believe the nation’s global influence is waning (“Decreasing”).
The French public is deeply skeptical of the current administration’s foreign policy. Half the public, 51%, believes Macron’s foreign policy has “Made the world more chaotic,” with only 7% believing it made the world more stable.
When considering external threats, 62% of respondents name Russia as the greatest threat to France’s security. However, this viewpoint is complex, as a substantial part of the population questions the prevailing narrative: 36% agree that economic difficulties are linked to sanctions against Russia, and 36% also agree there is ‘no proof’ that Russia presents a risk to France’s security.
A Resounding Call for Peace in Ukraine
The war in Ukraine is a source of widespread fear and anxiety for the French public. 69% are “scared” of the military escalation in Ukraine, and a significant 72% believe a risk of a global nuclear war “probably” or “certainly” exists.
Against this backdrop of fear, the public’s desire for a diplomatic solution is unequivocal. An overwhelming 87% demand peace negotiations, wanting Ukraine to negotiate a peace settlement as soon as possible, compared to only 13% who want Ukraine to continue the war against Russia. This reveals a deep aversion to prolonged conflict and a strong desire for de-escalation.
Public opinion is divided on continued military aid to Ukraine, with a 41% bloc favoring reduction (20%) or complete cessation (21%) of military assistance.
Furthermore, the public draws a hard line on warlike stances. A clear and strong consensus exists against rhetoric that normalizes military losses, as 69% found the declaration from the Chief of the Defence Staff, “we must accept losing our children,” to be ‘inadmissible’. Finally, 73% agree the president should not engage France in a ‘warlike position’ without the approval of Parliament.
Key Findings Summary
The survey highlights three critical fractures defining France’s crisis of confidence:
- Leadership Under Fire: There is a severe rejection of the President’s leadership, with 71% rating him as ‘bad,’ compounded by a widespread (64%) feeling of personal shame.
- A Diminished World Standing: The domestic crisis is perceived to have international consequences, as 62% of citizens believe France’s global influence is declining.
- A Resounding Call for Peace: On the key issue of Ukraine, the public’s desire for a diplomatic solution is clear: an overwhelming 87% demand peace negotiations, revealing a deep disconnect from more hawkish policies.
The survey fact sheet is detailled hereunder : 