[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Paris witnessed a significant setback for President Emmanuel Macron and his allies as lawmakers rejected long-planned immigration reforms. The cross-party coalition decisively voted 270-265 against the proposals, shunning any debate. Notably, moderates and extremists united in opposition despite the government’s claims of the bill aiding migrant integration and better immigration control.
Originally, the bill included measures limiting healthcare and benefit access, but it was later toned down. Far-left La France Insoumise party labeled it “xenophobic chatter,” advocating unconditional rights for all irregular migrants to stay and work in France. Far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen celebrated the bill’s failure, emphasizing protection against a “migratory tidal wave.”
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Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin offered resignation post-defeat, but Macron urged him to stay and find an alternative route for bill passage. This marked the first time in 25 years that a government bill was rejected before parliamentary debate. The stricter provisions of the bill allowed easier expulsion for those not adhering to republican values and lowered the expulsion age. It also imposed stringent requirements for family reunification.
Despite the setback, the government pledged to draft new legislation. The failed bill aimed at setting immigration objectives, akin to quotas, and facilitating regularization processes for undocumented migrants. A parliamentary committee will work on a compromise text to advance the government’s agenda.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
