Presidential hopefuls outline divergent immigration strategies ahead of French vote
Candidates for France's presidential election have begun detailing their immigration policies, reflecting the issue's prominence among voters.
With the presidential contest looming, immigration has emerged as a central theme in the French pre-campaign. The Rassemblement national, led by Marine Le Pen, continues to push for the abolition of family reunification, processing asylum claims abroad, and expelling undocumented foreigners, echoing its 2022 platform. Les Républicains' Bruno Retailleau announced plans for a constitutional referendum on migration and a legislative package that would remove jus soli and condition visas on partner countries' cooperation.
Horizons founder Edouard Philippe seeks to repeal the 1968 Algeria agreement, limit family migration and introduce quota-based admissions, while favoring the use of EU return centres. Gabriel Attal advocates a points-based, skills-focused system similar to Canada and tighter family-reunion rules. Raphaël Glucksmann proposes a citizen convention to deliberate immigration, and Jean-Luc Mélenchon may revive earlier proposals such as ten-year residence cards and expanded reception facilities.
How this story developed
- Aug 27 Marine Le Pen assures French entrepreneurs her policies pose no threat ahead of debate
- Sep 3 A Medef‑organized debate with seven presidential hopefuls was held at Roland‑Garros.
- Sep 6 Marine Le Pen addressed business leaders at the MEDEF gathering.
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