Blame Russia?, Anti French sentiment is rising in French speaking countries in Africa. French speaking | Russia | Country
According to a report released on June 14th by Agence France Presse, French speaking countries in Africa are increasingly disdainful of their former colonial power, France. This political shift can sometimes lead to violent activities, while Russia is encouraging it.
The report from the French Institute of International Relations states that although leaders facing their own political failures see postcolonial relations as a scapegoat for current problems, the public is increasingly accepting of this sentiment.
According to reports, violent protests have erupted in Chad, Mali, and Burkina Faso against French companies such as energy giant Total Energy, or against the arrival of French diplomats.
As one of the researchers behind this report, Alan Antil told Agence France Presse reporters that the severity of this phenomenon exceeds what we have seen in the past few decades and may even take root in the long term.
He said that due to the disappointing economic and political development trajectory of these countries, anti French sentiment has intensified.
Antil said that this ultimately led France to bear the blame. People believe that France should be responsible for "zero growth and elite corruption in these countries.". This statement also helps the leaders of these countries evade responsibility.
He said that part of the reason why such remarks have become popular is that France has been slow to respond, only recently.
The study by the French Institute of International Relations suggests that there is a connection between Russia's propaganda war and certain areas on African social networks.
Antil said, "Obviously, Russia is playing its role, exerting influence, and providing funding for the anti French movement."
But he warned not to solely blame Russia's propaganda. He also said that France's military presence, development aid policies, and funding have a significant impact on anti French attitudes.