Macron Compromises With Right to Pass Immigration Overhaul

The New York Times: The French leader was elected twice on a vow to keep populism at bay. But his bill received rare support from the far right, setting off a crisis in his party. This bill, which strengthens immigration controls and makes it tougher for foreigners to live, work, or study in France, marks a significant political shift for Macron, who was initially elected on a centrist, anti-populism platform.

Key Points:

1. Parliamentary Approval: The French Parliament approved the immigration bill after intense negotiations and amendments. The bill passed with 349 votes in favor and 186 against in the National Assembly, despite opposition from some members of Macron’s party.
2. Bill Provisions: The bill introduces temporary residency permits for skilled workers in shortage fields, streamlines the asylum process, and tightens rules for foreigners seeking to work, live, or study in France. It also restricts access to state subsidies and makes family reunification more challenging.
3. Political Implications: The bill’s passage represents a political compromise between Macron’s government and conservative forces, drawing rare support from the far right. This has caused a rift within Macron’s party and among his centrist allies.
4. Reaction from the Far Right: The National Rally, a prominent far-right party, supported the bill, viewing it as an ideological victory. Marine Le Pen, the party’s leader, called it a step in the right direction, though not sufficient.
5. Criticism and Controversy: The bill has been criticized for aligning with right-wing, anti-immigration views, challenging Macron’s centrist image. Critics argue that it panders to far-right sentiment and betrays France’s universalist social model.
6. Government’s Stance: The Macron government defends the bill as necessary for national security and public safety, arguing that robust immigration reform is needed to counter the rise of extremist forces.
7. Public Opinion: Recent polls indicate that a majority of the French population supports stricter immigration rules, similar to those proposed in the bill.
8. Opposition Response: Leftist parties, labor unions, and migrant advocacy groups have opposed the bill, arguing that it undermines human rights and hinders the integration of foreigners.

In summary, President Macron’s government has successfully passed a significant immigration overhaul in France, marking a shift in his political approach and causing internal party tensions. The bill reflects a compromise with conservative forces, drawing support from the far right while facing criticism from the left and advocacy groups.

The entire article can be read at the link https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/19/world/europe/macron-immigration-overhaul.html