France To Introduce New Immigration Law In 2025 Amid Political Shift
France is set to introduce a new immigration law in 2025, as the right-wing government led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier seeks to tighten immigration policies and border controls. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon confirmed the need for the new legislation during an interview with BFMTV on Sunday, signaling the government’s firm stance on immigration following this summer’s elections, which resulted in a hung parliament.
The proposed law comes in the wake of a high-profile case in September, where a Paris student was raped and murdered, allegedly by a Moroccan national. The incident has further fueled the national debate on migration, with public pressure mounting for stricter immigration control.
One of the key measures under consideration is extending the detention period for undocumented migrants deemed dangerous. The government is exploring the option of increasing the maximum detention period from 90 days to 210 days, which is currently only allowed in cases of terrorism. Bregeon stated, “We don’t rule out the possibility of considering other provisions,” adding that there should be “no taboos when it comes to protecting the French.”
This initiative follows a controversial immigration law passed last December, which had been hardened to gain the support of far-right and right-wing MPs. However, many of the amendments were struck down by France’s Constitutional Council. These rejected measures are expected to form the foundation of the new immigration bill, with potential modifications and additions.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, known for his hardline views, has been vocal in his determination to crack down on immigration. Retailleau, a former leader of the Republicans party in the Senate, has pushed for the reinstatement of the offense of illegal residence, among other strict measures. His comments that “the rule of law is neither intangible nor sacred” have sparked controversy.
While the Barnier government is pushing forward with the new law, some figures within President Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party have expressed caution. Gabriel Attal, Barnier’s predecessor and now leader of the Renaissance party in parliament, stated that a new law on immigration may not be an immediate priority. “Adopting a law for the sake of a law makes no sense,” he said in an interview, stressing the need for effective border control rather than legislative measures alone.
The bill is expected to be submitted to parliament in early 2025.
