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Rabat – A new survey on French public opinion points to a clear divergence in how Morocco and Algeria are perceived, with Morocco standing out as the most positively viewed African partner for France.
The findings come from Toluna Harris Interactive for MGH Partners and reflect broader shifts in how French respondents assess international alliances at a time of global uncertainty.
Strong approval for ties with Morocco
The study shows that 72% of French respondents consider it a good idea for France to maintain privileged relations with Morocco. Nearly one in five even describe this relationship as very positive.
Morocco also ranks high in terms of trust. About 40% of respondents describe the country as an ally, a notable figure in a context where many French citizens now approach international relations with caution.
The survey also points to a rise in Morocco’s image over time, with a 13-point increase in the share of respondents who see it as an ally compared to five years earlier.
Security and economy at the core of perceptions
Several factors help explain this perception. Respondents associate Morocco with cooperation on security matters, particularly counterterrorism and efforts to manage irregular migration. These areas appear central in shaping public confidence.
Economic relations also play a strong role. More than 800 French companies operate in Morocco, making the country France’s leading business partner in Africa. Industrial cooperation, renewable energy projects, and infrastructure development contribute to this image of stability and mutual benefit.
Many respondents also link Morocco to regional balance, seeing it as a country that maintains relative stability in a wider environment marked by tensions.
Support for strong relations with Morocco appears across generations. The survey shows 64% approval among people aged 18 to 24, rising to 77% among those aged 65 and above. This suggests a shared perception that goes beyond political or generational divides.
A more complicated view of Algeria
In contrast, Algeria receives a far more divided response. Only 51% of French respondents say privileged relations with Algeria are a good thing, a figure that includes just 11% who see it as very positive.
Negative perceptions are more pronounced. Around 26% describe the relationship as rather negative, while 19% consider it very negative.
Trust indicators are also low. Only 17% of respondents view Algeria as an ally, while 45% associate it with a sense of threat.
A wider shift in global perceptions
The survey places these views within a broader international context where trust in foreign partners has become more fragile. European countries remain largely seen as allies, while several other states attract more skepticism among French respondents.
Against this backdrop, Morocco stands out as an exception, benefiting from a consistent and improving image, while Algeria faces a more challenging perception landscape.
The study was conducted between May 5 and 11, among a representative sample of 1,240 people in France and offers a snapshot of how French citizens view foreign policy priorities at a time marked by geopolitical tensions linked to Ukraine, the Middle East and Iran, alongside shifting economic concerns that shape attitudes toward international partnerships.
