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

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

A current survey by the IFOP opinion research institute shows that the desire for more independence in Alsace is strong. 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 the case of a referendum. The survey was carried out on behalf of three associations that work for more independence of Alsace.

This wish is in the context of the 2016 merger, in which Alsace with Lorraine and Champagne-Arydennes was united to form the new Région Grand EST. This merger led to the fact that Alsace almost disappeared at the administrative level, which met with broad criticism among the population. In demonstrations, 83 percent of Alsatians spoke out against the belonging to Grand Est, and there are still demands of regional politicians after leaving this construction.

political framework and wishes

The political landscape in Alsace has changed since the merger. In 2021, the European regional body of Alsace was founded with special rights, for example in working with Germany. Nevertheless, the political support for leaving the Région Grand Est in France is low. President Emmanuel Macron had given the request a year ago by noting that only further skills could be transferred to the area body. In addition, 55 percent of the respondents support the establishment of a new political party to split up Grand Est.

Another significant result of the survey shows that 68 percent of Alsatians want the Collectivité Européenne d’Alsace to become a separate region outside the Grand EST. However, only 54 percent of Alsatians are aware of the new Collectivité, and 32 percent know exactly what this means. In addition, there has been a decline in the use of the Alsacische Language in recent years: only 21 percent speak Alsacisch in the family.

autonomy and cultural identity

The Alsace has received a special statute in the French central state in recent years, which aims to strengthen German lessons and to promote cooperation with neighboring Basel and Baden-Württemberg. This development ensures worry folds in France, as fears that the 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, the Alsace was divided into the department's skin Rhin and Bas-Rhin. In view of the strong regional identity and the desire for independence, politicians and citizens in Alsace are trying to preserve their cultural independence and to promote the Alsacian language. Interestingly, 50 percent of the respondents support an action plan to strengthen this language, in particular through increased lessons in schools.