In a recent development signaling a significant shift in France’s immigration policy, Bruno Retailleau, the newly appointed interior minister, announced a series of stringent measures aimed at curbing illegal migration during his first public speech. Speaking before police unions at the ‘Cour de l’Hôtel de Beauvau,’ Retailleau emphasized the need to end illegal migration and restore order in the country. These remarks indicate a rightward shift in the nation’s approach towards immigration.
The senior Republican (Les Républicains) outlined various legislative reforms he intends to pursue to achieve this goal. Among these proposals is the intention to regularize as few immigrants as possible while maximizing deportations. In a televised interview, Retailleau discussed the need to amend current legislation, particularly targeting laws that provide free medical assistance to immigrants after three months in the country. He plans to replace this with a reduced protection regime.
Additionally, Retailleau aims to repeal the “Circulaire Valls,” a 2012 legislation that removed the criminal offense of illegal residence, thereby preventing law enforcement from detaining individuals in irregular situations. This proposed amendment might conflict with decisions by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) on the Return directive and subsequent decisions by France’s own court.
Another notable element of Retailleau’s new policy approach includes the potential revocation of a 1968 bilateral agreement with Algeria, established during the decolonization period to offer special status and benefits to Algerian immigrants in France. Given that the agreement is governed by international law, annulling it might prove challenging, but an immediate effect would be the impact on the rights of Algerians in France.
Retailleau also highlighted the need for new bilateral agreements with Maghreb countries aimed at retaining migrants outside Europe, similar to the agreements between Italy and Albania and the EU’s agreement with Tunisia. These steps form part of a broader strategy to manage migration flows more effectively.
For more details on Retailleau’s policy and background, refer to the full article on JURIST. Retailleau’s experience and previous political roles, including his tenure as president of the LR senatorial group, coupled with recent political shifts in France, foreshadow an impactful tenure for the newly appointed interior minister.