Authoritarian populism is challenging contemporary democracies, raising concerns about their resilience. Using France as a magnifying lens, we show that while the gap between political elites and ordinary citizens is widening, the French remain strongly committed to democratic values, calling for greater participation and responsiveness of institutions. French democracy is on a razor’s edge, with mounting citizen frustrations and awaited reforms.

Élodie Druez, F.R.S.-FNRS Research Fellow at Université Libre de Bruxelles, GERME, Belgium.

Frédéric Gonthier, Full Professor of Political Science at Sciences Po Grenoble, University of Grenoble-Alpes, Pacte, CNRS, France.

Camille Kelbel, Scientific Advisor at F.R.S-FNRS, Belgium.

Nonna Mayer, CNRS Research Director Emerita at Sciences Po Paris, CEE, CNRS, France.

Felix-Christopher von Nostitz, Associate Professor of Political Science at the Catholic University of Lille, ESPOL-LAB, France.

Vincent Tiberj, Full Professor of Political Science at Sciences Po Bordeaux, CED, France.