France is preparing for stricter immigration and security measures, signaling a shift toward right-wing policies.
The country’s new Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, indicated that upcoming reforms will address asylum requests, violence against law enforcement, prison sentences, extremism, and drug trafficking.
Following the June elections, where President Emmanuel Macron’s government suffered significant losses, the National Rally has gained prominence in the political landscape.
Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s centrist-conservative coalition, while in power, relies on implicit support from the National Rally, which reserves the right to withdraw its backing if issues like immigration and security are not adequately addressed.
Retailleau, a 63-year-old veteran from the conservative Les Républicains party, has long been a proponent of tougher immigration policies.
During his first Cabinet meeting, he provided little detail on his approach as Interior Minister. However, in recent interviews, he outlined his stance, stating that France must enhance its legislative tools to tackle illegal immigration and enforce deportations.
In a statement to Le Figaro, Retailleau emphasized the need to prevent the entry of undocumented migrants and ensure their deportation, stressing that those who enter France illegally should not be allowed to stay.
He plans to introduce new proposals in the coming weeks and is considering using executive orders to expedite these changes.
Retailleau also called on France and other like-minded European countries to push the European Union toward stricter immigration regulations. In an interview with CNews, he highlighted the importance of unity among EU member states in addressing immigration challenges.
The new French government, announced on Saturday, includes 39 ministers, primarily from centrist and conservative parties.
Retailleau, known for his hardline stance on immigration, is a key figure from the right-wing Les Républicains party and has supported alliances with far-right groups to address contentious issues like immigration.
Retailleau has urged President Macron to adopt a more stringent approach to immigration, including constitutional changes that would reduce social welfare benefits for migrants.
