France: 79% of citizens support shopkeeper self-defense

A CSA poll conducted for CNews, Europe 1, and Le Journal du Dimanche reveals that 79% of French citizens support the right of shopkeepers to use self-defense against looters. This majority opinion spans various political affiliations, including 63% support among left-wing sympathizers and 72% among supporters of the presidential majority.

The survey follows recent protests against the high cost of living on October 17 and 24, during which approximately 2,500 businesses were damaged. According to CCI France, 1,161 of these establishments were looted, vandalized, or burned, resulting in estimated damages worth several hundred million euros.

Support for self-defense is highest among the 18 to 24 age demographic at 94%. On the political spectrum, support reaches 95% among supporters of Marine Le Pen’s National Rally and Reconquête, while 82% of Republican supporters also favor the measure.