A recent CSA Institute survey reveals that 81% of French citizens favor imposing economic sanctions on Algeria if the country refuses to take back its nationals expelled from French territory. The findings reflect growing public support for a firmer stance in handling bilateral disputes.
Calls for Sanctions Inspired by U.S. Strategy?
The poll, conducted by the CSA Institute for CNews, Europe, and the Journal du Dimanche (JDD), presents a strong consensus across French society for the implementation of punitive measures like increased customs duties. This strategy mirrors a tactic previously employed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who successfully pressured Colombia into accepting deportees by imposing higher tariffs.
The survey demonstrates overwhelming public backing, with majorities across all age groups favoring sanctions: 87% of those aged 50-65, 79% of 18-24 year-olds, and 77% of 25-34 year-olds.
Similarly, support is consistent among socio-professional categories, including 82% of the economically inactive and 81% of higher-income groups.
Diplomatic Relations at a Low Point
Tensions between France and Algeria have been worsening, highlighted by Algeria’s refusal to take back an expelled Algerian influencer accused of making death threats. In response, Algiers summoned the French ambassador, denouncing alleged “degrading treatment” of Algerian passengers at French airports. These incidents add to a list of grievances that have strained diplomatic ties, creating public pressure for France to respond assertively.
The survey shows widespread support for the “strong method,” particularly among right-wing political groups. Within the ranks of Les Républicains (LR), 97% of supporters favor economic sanctions, aligning with statements by LR Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who has criticized Algeria for what he described as “humiliating” behavior toward France. Retailleau emphasized the need for a stronger response, stating that without a balance of power, negotiations with Algeria would remain ineffective.
Political Divides: The Left Remains Cautious
While the survey highlights broad support for sanctions, political preferences reveal some divisions. On the far-right, 92% of Rassemblement National (RN) voters advocate economic measures, reflecting the party’s hardline stance on immigration and national sovereignty.
The presidential majority also shows robust support, with 84% of respondents backing sanctions. However, the left-wing La France Insoumise (LFI) party stands out, with only 50% of its supporters endorsing the measure. The LFI’s mixed stance is attributed to figures like Rima Hassan, an outspoken supporter of Algeria who refused to support a European Parliament resolution demanding the release of Franco-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, currently imprisoned in Algeria. Critics, such as Retailleau, have described such positions as “allied with Algeria.”
A Crossroads in French-Algerian Relations
The CSA survey underscores a critical juncture in French-Algerian relations, as public sentiment heavily favors using economic pressure to resolve disputes. With 81% of the French population supporting sanctions, the French government may face increased pressure to adopt stricter measures if Algeria remains uncooperative. How this plays out will likely shape future diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.