The issue of migration is once again straining relations between Algeria and France, as the composition of the new French government, dominated by right-wing figures, signals a potential shift in policy. Most notably, the appointment of Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, known for his hardline stance on migration, has raised concerns in Algeria.
Retailleau has advocated for a review of a long-standing 1968 agreement between the two nations, which governs migration, work, study, and family reunification for Algerians in France.
Observers in Algeria are closely monitoring how these changes will affect bilateral ties, especially given Retailleau’s record and the broader political shift in France toward stricter immigration policies. Retailleau replaces Gérald Darmanin, who, upon leaving the post, referenced his Algerian heritage and the challenges it presented in his political career.
Darmanin’s comments were seen as a critique of France’s attitudes toward individuals of Arab descent holding high-ranking positions.
A particularly contentious issue is France’s demand for Algeria to repatriate around 7,000 undocumented Algerian migrants.
In 2021, Darmanin failed to secure Algeria’s cooperation in this matter, with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune asserting that many of the individuals in question were not confirmed to be Algerian nationals.
Algerian media has noted that Retailleau, along with new Prime Minister Michel Barnier, shares a hardline stance on migration, a point that could further complicate relations.
The far-right National Rally party in France has already expressed support for Retailleau’s appointment, signaling broader political pressure within France to tighten immigration policies, particularly concerning Algeria.
