French people rank security and immigration among top priorities for 2026

According to an Odoxa-Backbone poll for Le Figaro, French people want an increase in purchasing power (43%), a reduction in insecurity (42%), and a decrease in immigration (35%) for 2026. The year 2025 was marked by political instability cited by 47% of respondents, along with economic and security concerns. These expectations reflect a daily life poisoned by threats such as crimes, terrorism, and migration pressure.

An exclusive poll conducted by Odoxa with Backbone Consulting for Le Figaro, published on December 25, 2025, reveals the French priorities for the coming year. At the top of their wishes is an increase in purchasing power at 43%, closely followed by a reduction in insecurity at 42%, and a decrease in immigration at 35%. These concerns stem from a 2025 described as 'black', marked by an avalanche of drugs, crimes and murders, the specter of Islamist terrorism, cyber attacks, and increased migration pressure.

Political instability dominates minds, with 47% of respondents citing it as the defining event of 2025. Notable facts include the overthrow of François Bayrou's government in early September, Sébastien Lecornu's 'resignation-reappointment' in October, and the autumn budget marathon. Purchasing power ranks second in 2025 concerns, tied with Donald Trump's return (40%), in a gloomy economic context despite growth forecasts of 0.9% for 2025 and 1% for 2026 by Insee and the Banque de France.

Shocked by high-profile cases like the Louvre burglary and the murder of young Elias, the French demand a 'security clampdown'. They live in stress and fear, especially the most vulnerable segments of the population, with little hope for 2026. Despite savings exceeding 6,000 billion euros, economic uncertainty amplifies these fears, with citizens expecting much from politics to regain peace.

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Illustration depicting disillusioned French voters outside the National Assembly, highlighting record-low 22% trust in politics ahead of 2026 elections.
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Distrust in French politics reaches critical level

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Only 22% of French people trust politics, according to the 17th wave of the Cevipof barometer, a figure far below that of European neighbors. This disarray stems from 18 months without a majority in the National Assembly, fostering a sense of democratic inefficiency. Ahead of the March 2026 municipal elections, French voters remain committed to voting despite their doubts.

Despite statistical gains, purchasing power remains the French public's top worry for 2026 per the recent Odoxa poll for Le Figaro—outranking insecurity and immigration. In response, new Minister Serge Papin proposes tax-free withdrawals from company savings plans for low-wage earners.

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Geopolitical tensions, political instability in France, and falling interest rates are prompting savers to rethink their plans and take on more risk to chase better returns. French people are still saving heavily, with a record savings rate of 8.4% of disposable income in Q3 2025. Demand for savings products like life insurance and stocks is surging.

Following Parliament's unanimous adoption of a special finance law on December 23, 2025, to bridge funding amid failed 2026 budget talks, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu insists a compromise remains possible in January. Yet, the measure—echoing last year's—prolongs uncertainty rooted in the June 2024 National Assembly dissolution, with significant fiscal and political costs.

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On October 14, 2025, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu presented the 2026 finance bill, aiming to cut the public deficit to 4.7% of GDP through €14 billion in extra tax revenues and €17 billion in spending savings. The budget targets high earners, businesses, and social expenditures, while drawing criticism over its feasibility.

France is now poorer than the European average in terms of GDP per capita, according to Eurostat's latest 2024 estimates. This decoupling, which has accelerated over the past decade, fits into a sluggish 0.9% growth in 2025, far below the EU's 1.6%.

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French deputies overwhelmingly approved the principle of a 6.7 billion euro increase in military spending for 2026 in a symbolic vote initiated by the government. The tally was 411 in favor against 88, aimed at facilitating the state budget's passage. Several opposition parties criticize this as instrumentalization.

 

 

 

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