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Angus Reid Global Monitor : Polls & Research
French Troubled by Riots, Back Emergency Measures
Credit:UN/DPI Photo
Nicolas Sarkozy
(Angus Reid Global Scan) - Many adults in France believe the government was right to authorize a curfew for specific areas of the country following recent acts of violence, according to a poll by CSA published in Le Parisien. 73 per cent of respondents support the emergency measures.
The riots broke out in the Paris suburb of Clichy-sous-Bois on Oct. 27, after the death of two teenagers who allegedly were being pursued by police officers. In 13 nights of violence—which has spread to 19 French provinces—more than 6,400 vehicles have been torched, 1,600 people have been arrested, and one person has died.
On Nov. 8, French president Jacques Chirac authorized a state of emergency. Interior minister Nicolas Sarkozy declared, "For a period of 12 days, searches will be possible every time we suspect possession of weapons (in order to) systematically apprehend troublemakers and systematically prevent a spread of violence." 58 per cent of respondents say they are troubled by the recent events, 28 per cent feel dissatisfaction, 12 per cent express understanding, and one per cent are sympathetic.
More than 80 per cent of respondents support the proposals put forward by French prime minister Dominique de Villepin to restore financing for organizations that provide housing and educational assistance in the suburbs, and to allow people to have access to work training programs at the age of 14, instead of 16.
Yesterday, Sarkozy urged for the expulsion of all non-citizens involved in the violent acts, saying, "Close to 120 foreigners, not all of whom maintain an irregular status in the country, have been admonished." In a survey conducted last week, 57 per cent of respondents had a positive opinion of Sarkozy.
Polling Data
As you know, prime minister Dominique de Villepin has put forward several measures. Tell me if you support or oppose each one.
Support | Oppose | |
Restoring financing for organizations that provide | 89% | 9% |
Allowing people to have access to work training | 83% | 10% |
Authorizing the curfew for specific areas | 73% | 16% |
How do you feel about the situation in the suburbs?
Troubled | 58% |
Dissatisfied | 28% |
Understanding | 12% |
Sympathetic | 1% |
No opinion | 1% |
Do you have a positive or a negative opinion of interior minister Nicolas Sarkozy?
Positive | 57% |
Negative | 39% |
No answer | 4% |
Source: CSA / Le Parisien
Methodology: Interviews with 805 French adults, conducted on Nov. 8, 2005 (First two questions), and interviews with 988 French adults, conducted on Nov. 2 and Nov. 3, 2005 (Third question). No margin of error was provided.
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