France faces deep crisis of trust in political institutions

A recent poll by CEVIPOF shows that only 23 % of French respondents believe democracy works well in France, while 76 % think it functions poorly. Trust in major political actors is low – parties receive just 15 % confidence, the media 29 % and the national government 34 % according to OECD data. By contrast, institutions such as the police, local authorities, the judiciary and the health system enjoy confidence levels above 70 %.

The survey also reveals that 89 % of French citizens feel they need to be better considered by politics, a need that exceeds their desire for better treatment at work or by others. While political interest remains relatively high – 53 % say they follow politics, with 16 % very closely – many feel their influence on decision‑making is limited, fueling a sense of disenfranchisement and demanding greater respect from elected officials.