Alsatians want to return to independence – survey shows: 72%!

Alsatians want to return to independence – survey shows: 72%!

A current survey by the opinion research institute Ifop shows that the desire for more independence is strong in Alsace. Over 70 percent of those surveyed are in favor of restoring the region's independence. According to the survey, 72 percent would vote for independence, especially in a referendum. The survey was carried out on behalf of three associations campaigning for greater independence in Alsace.

This wish is in the context of the 2016 merger, in which Alsace was united with Lorraine and Champagne-Ardennes to form the new Région Grand Est. This merger led to Alsace almost disappearing at the administrative level, which was met with widespread criticism from the population. During demonstrations, 83 percent of Alsatians spoke out against belonging to the Grand Est, and there are still calls from regional politicians to leave this construction.

Political framework conditions and wishes

The political landscape in Alsace has changed since the merger. In 2021, the European regional authority of Alsace was founded with special rights, for example in cooperation with Germany. Nevertheless, political support for leaving the Grand Est region in France is low. President Emmanuel Macron rejected the request a year ago, noting that perhaps only further powers could be transferred to the local authority. In addition, 55 percent of respondents support the creation of a new political party to secede from Grand Est.

Another significant result of the survey shows that 68 percent of Alsatians want the Collectivité européenne d’Alsace to become its own region outside of the Grand Est. However, only 54 percent of Alsatians are aware of the new collectivité and 32 percent know exactly what it means. There has also been a decline in the use of the Alsacian language in recent years: only 21 percent speak Alsacian in their family circle.

Autonomy and cultural identity

In recent years, Alsace has received a special statute in the French central state, which aims to strengthen German teaching and promote cooperation with neighboring Basel and Baden-Württemberg. This development is causing concern in France, as there are fears that Alsace could increasingly turn away from Paris.

The region has an area of ​​8,000 square kilometers and a population of 1.9 million. Previously, Alsace was divided into the departments of Haut-Rhin and Bas-Rhin. Given the strong regional identity and desire for independence, politicians and citizens in Alsace are striving to preserve their cultural independence and promote the Alsacian language. Interestingly, 50 percent of respondents support an action plan to strengthen this language, particularly through increased teaching in schools.

Given these developments, it remains to be seen what political steps will be taken in the coming months to address the Alsatians' desire for more independence.