What is the most common nationality in the French Foreign Legion?

Question

I used to know a couple of lads who were in it, even toyed with the idea of taking the plunge myself. They told me the most common nationalities are British and German but this was during the Cold War. Have things changed now ? I suspect there are a lot of Eastern Europeans these days.

How come there are French in their own Foreign Legion? They want the identity change?

Answer 1

Yes, the nationalities change often from year to year in the Legion. You are correct! Currently there are many eastern Europeans in the legion (czech, hungary, poland). Not too many english speakers anymore these days.

it's smaller too now. There is talk about eliminating the legion as many of it's missions are being handled by regular french military. But I think there will always be a role for the legion in some way or another.

Answer 2

I would think french speaking North Africans would make up a sizable number...but i'm just spit balling..

I am skeptical that 'alot; of eastern Europeans would join because the majority of emigrants from these countries are going to live work in England, Ireland...also their militaries allready have made supporting commitments to the U.S. where they can get decent money in Iraq or Afghanistan..so why join up. I agree with the sotuh african example because they fit the bill. not in Nato, famously for producing and exporting mercanaries and a lack of opportunities at home.

you know who you should ask this question to? Jean Claude Van Damme...

Answer 3

French citizens make up 25-35% of the Legion - although the make up varies as it is truly international. I'd say it is still most likely to be the French who are the majority.

Answer 4

don't know but just so you do know there isn't any french in the french foreign legion as french nationals are not allowed to join.

thats way is call the foreign legion

Answer 5

you could be right,i was in,1968-73 and than the mayority,where besides a lot of german
the french themselves.
a lot of french guys joined,and where given
the nationality of monaco/luxemburg/french speaking belgiums.

Answer 6

I saw a special on TV and the nationalities were very diverse even Americans...

Answer 7

les francais avec 35/40%

Answer 8

from what I understand, South Africa has a lot of people in it.

Answer 9

As they are the best unit the french have then you can bet it isn't french

Answer 10

when will french people start bathing and using deodorant? i met a couple of frenchies and they stunk like cesspools. they were women too. the smell came from their lady privates.