Immigration law is a hot topic that deeply divides the political class in France. While the government is trying to pass this law which aims to regulate immigration and facilitate the integration of undocumented workers, right-wing parliamentarians are showing their fierce opposition to certain measures.
Article 3 of this law, which provides for the regularization of undocumented workers exercising shortage occupations, is particularly contested by Les Républicains (LR). The latter believe that this measure is unacceptable given the security threat that immigration represents according to them.
Following the Arras attack perpetrated by a radicalized individual of foreign origin, LR has hardened its position and is now demanding the pure and simple deletion of article 3 as a prerequisite for any negotiation. They are even planning to launch a “major national petition” to mobilize public opinion and make their demands heard.
The president of LR, Éric Ciotti, also declared that he was ready to use all the means at his disposal to put pressure on the government, including the motion of censure in the event of use of 49-3 to have the law adopted. He argues that LR’s proposals are supported by a majority of French people and that it is time to give the people a voice on this crucial issue.
For its part, the National Rally (RN) maintains its firm position against the regularization of undocumented immigrants, while suggesting that it could vote in favor of the law as a whole. Marine Le Pen believes that the bill does not go far enough and describes the proposed measures as “small” and “insufficient”.
Faced with this opposition, the government is trying to stay the course by asserting its desire to strengthen controls and fight against illegal immigration. However, it is clear that the debate on this law is only just beginning and that negotiations within Parliament are likely to be tough.
It is important to emphasize that immigration is a complex subject which requires a balanced approach taking into account both security imperatives, economic realities and the values of welcome and integration which make our society rich. It is therefore crucial that the decisions taken within the framework of this law are thoughtful and informed, in order to find a fair balance between these different aspects.