Selected immigration rather than imposed. This is the objective of Nicolas Sarkozy’s immigration bill. The deputies have already begun their review in the National Assembly. One year before electoral deadlines, this text is causing controversy throughout France. Nice is no exception. Both right and left-wing politicians do not hesitate to speak out on this sensitive issue.
“We need immigrants. However, integration must be successful, and the flows must be managed. It is necessary to be strict to fight illegal immigration effectively,” says Rudy Salles, UDF deputy of Alpes-Maritimes. He does not mince his words. His opinion is already formed, and he is satisfied with the decision of the Interministerial Committee on Integration. Specifically, this involves conditioning the issuance of any residency card on an adequate level of French.
Thus, knowing the language of Moliรจre, understanding the principles governing the French Republic, and being able to integrate are all points included in the bill. Not to forget the extension to three years for the issuance of a residence card in case of marriage to a French citizen. In total, about a hundred articles are planned.
The controversial text originates from one man: Nicolas Sarkozy. It was in front of 2000 members, twelve days earlier, that the Minister of the Interior declared, “if some do not like France, they should not hesitate to leave.”
Fully agreeing with this principle, the UMP deputy, Jรฉrรดme Riviรจre, still regrets that the text does not go further. According to him, “one cannot demand from a foreigner to know everything immediately. However, I would like those who do not love our country to be forced to leave, as they have no place to stay in France.”
The words are out, sensibilities are hurt. This is the case for Robert Injey, departmental secretary of PCF 06. “After playing on the insecurity card in 2002, the right wants to rely on the fear of foreigners.” Opposed to the policy desired by the Minister of the Interior on this subject, Robert Injey would have rather seen the establishment of voting rights for foreign residents. According to him, immigrants have contributed a lot to France throughout the 20th century.
Touched on by Valรฉry Giscard d’Estaing or Franรงois Mitterrand, the theme of immigration has spanned decades in the French political sphere without ever being resolved. Not even yesterday in the hemicycle of the Assembly where differences were apparent. An opportunity for Nicolas Sarkozy to reiterate his desire to limit the entry of non-French individuals. For Robert Injey, the Minister of the Interior has created a project of “disposable immigration.” That is why, to prevent the existence of such a law, the departmental secretary of PCF is determined to mobilize.
The arrival of foreigners: a plus for some, a minus for others. The French recently made their decision. According to a survey conducted by LH2 institute, 46% of the respondents consider immigration as an asset for France, while 39% see it as a handicap. Opinions are divided.
As the 2007 presidential elections approach, this theme announces itself as one of the central chapters in the race for “the first place at the Elysรฉe.” Jรฉrรดme Riviรจre is convinced: “Immigration is a major issue for the future of our country.” The UMP deputy had already announced on April 27 on his website: “The successive economic crises, housing problems, … compel us to finally lead a policy of real control of immigration.” It is different for Rudy Salles. While he recognizes the importance of the issue of immigrants, he believes it is especially necessary to address themes such as employment, housing, and the environment.
It remains to be seen what the voters will decide. For now, everything remains to be done regarding the future of immigrants. The National Assembly will pronounce on the whole text on Tuesday, May 9. The Senate, for its part, will be able to examine it in turn around the beginning of June. Case to follow.
Speech of the Minister of the Interior to present his law: [Ministry of Interior’s website](https://www.interieur.gouv.fr/rubriques/c/c1_le_ministre/c13_discours/2006_05_02_projet_loi_immigration)
