In a whirlwind of regional disputes, Alsace and Lorraine clash once again, fueling ancestral tensions. But why does Alsace persist in wanting to free itself from the yoke of Grand Est despite these stubborn resentments towards its Lorraine neighbor? Let us delve into the heart of these regional rivalries to better understand the issues that animate these lands of contradictions.
The Alsace-Lorraine derby: a sporting rivalry that extends beyond the football fields
“The Messins are pigs! The Messins are pigs!” chant the Strasbourg supporters after their victory in the latest Alsace-Lorraine derby in Ligue 1. While some FC Metz supporters do not see this match as a true derby and prefer to reserve this epithet for their confrontation with Nancy, the Strasbourgers attach particular importance to this regional duel. This reflects a rivalry that extends far beyond sports.
A historical animosity
To understand the persistence of this animosity between Alsace and Lorraine despite the passing years, we must examine the history of this region. Philippe Breton, director of the Observatory of Political Life in Alsace (Ovipal), emphasizes the existence of a historical animosity between the two peoples.
The tensions between Alsace and Lorraine
This animosity has deep roots, notably linked to various territorial attachments over the centuries. Alsace and Lorraine have alternately been under German and French domination, which has generated identity tensions. Alsatians and Lorrainers have often felt caught in a vise between the two neighboring powers, which has reinforced their regional specificities and desires for independence.
Grand Est and the question of Alsatian identity
The creation of the Grand Est region in 2016 questioned Alsatian identity and reignited tensions with Lorraine. Alsatians felt stripped of their specificity and viewed the merger with Lorraine as a form of forced assimilation. This questioning of their identity has led some Alsatians to seek separation from Grand Est and to demand greater autonomy.
The feeling of Alsatian frustration
The feeling of frustration among Alsatians towards Lorraine also manifests itself on a socio-economic level. Alsace is an economically dynamic region, with prosperous industrial and tourist sectors. Some Alsatians believe that their wealth is redistributed to benefit Lorraine, viewed as a more economically disadvantaged region. This perception exacerbates Alsatian resentment towards Lorraine and strengthens the desire for separation.
Towards an autonomous Alsace?
Faced with these persistent tensions, some Alsatian movements advocate for the autonomy of the region. They demand institutional recognition of Alsace as a fully-fledged entity, endowed with a specific status and expanded competencies. However, these claims face political obstacles, particularly at the national level, where the question of territorial unity remains a sensitive issue.
Despite the ongoing tensions with Lorraine, Alsace maintains its desire to leave Grand Est. The historical animosity between the two regions, the identity divergences, and the socio-economic considerations fuel this movement for Alsatian autonomy. It remains to be seen whether these demands will be heard and if a new territorial configuration will emerge within Grand Est.
