French authorities plan to introduce a new immigration law next year, according to government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon, as the right-wing government sharpens its approach to immigration. The push for tighter immigration policies is being led by Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who has emphasized the need for stronger border controls and stricter measures for undocumented migrants. This initiative reflects the broader rightward shift in French politics following recent elections that resulted in a hung parliament.
The proposed bill, expected to be submitted in early 2025, includes a provision to extend the detention period for undocumented migrants considered dangerous from 90 to 210 days. Currently, such an extension is only applied in cases related to terrorism. Retailleau, known for his hardline stance on immigration, has stated that there should be no restrictions on measures needed to protect the French population.
However, not everyone within the government sees the new law as an immediate priority. Gabriel Attal, Barnier’s predecessor and leader of President Macron’s Renaissance party in parliament, has voiced concerns, arguing that rather than simply passing new legislation, the focus should be on ensuring the state can effectively manage who enters and leaves the country. Meanwhile, previous attempts to pass tougher immigration laws were censured by the Constitutional Council, but parts of those measures will be used as a foundation for the upcoming bill, with some modifications expected.
