Doha, Qatar: A new French public opinion survey has revealed a significant rise in positive perceptions of Qatar among the French public, reflecting the country’s growing diplomatic and economic influence in Europe and the Middle East.
According to the ‘French Perspectives on Foreign Policy Wave 2 — May 2026’ survey conducted by Toluna Harris Interactive for MGH Partners, Qatar is increasingly viewed by the French people as an important partner for France, particularly in the context of changing global alliances and foreign policy priorities.
The survey found that 33 percent of respondents now consider Qatar an ally of France, a significant increase from 19 percent in 2021 (gaining 14 positive points), marking one of the sharpest positive shifts among non-European countries surveyed. The report described this as part of a broader “rise in soft-power recognition for Gulf partners like Qatar and the UAE.”
Support for strong bilateral ties with Qatar also emerged prominently in the findings. Around 71 percent of respondents said it was a ‘good thing’ for France to maintain a privileged relationship with Qatar, placing the country among France’s most positively viewed Middle Eastern partners.
The growing popularity of Qatar in France appears closely linked to its expanding diplomatic role, investment presence, and international visibility over recent years. The survey suggests that many French citizens increasingly see Gulf partnerships as strategically valuable amid rising concerns over global instability, terrorism, and economic security.
The report also highlighted a wider shift in French public attitudes toward international relations. While traditional European allies such as Italy, Spain, Germany, and the United Kingdom continue to be viewed favorably.
The survey has covered five major areas as Foreign Policy Priorities and France’s Global Position; Allies and Threats to France According to the French Public; Budgetary and Diplomatic Levers to Strengthen France; Perception of Relations with Africa and the Middle East; and Crisis Anticipation and Conflict Preparedness.
Foreign policy concerns among the French public are now increasingly centered on national security, economic interests, terrorism, and border control. More than half of respondents identified defending the French public against external powers as a top foreign policy priority, while 45 percent highlighted counter-terrorism efforts.
The survey, conducted online between May 5 and 11, 2026, included a representative sample of 1,240 adults across France.
