France toughens immigration laws under a new conservative government

France's new government was announced, formed two weeks after the appointment of Michel Barnier as Prime Minister and over two months after the parliamentary elections. Conservatives, who have returned to power after 12 years, are announcing a tightening of immigration policies.

On Monday, France's new Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, stated that the French want more order at the country's borders and on the streets. He listed maintaining order as his priority because, according to his words, "when there is no order, freedom is at risk." The minister mentioned that he wants to take examples from Italy, among others, which is implementing a plan to stop migration from Africa.

"The French, too, have given us their roadmap. We must listen to the message they gave us ... They want more security and less immigration. I will apply this roadmap," said Retailleau during the official assumption of office.

The 63-year-old politician from the right-wing Republican Party is considered a staunch conservative. He had previously led the Republican group in the Senate. During parliamentary work on the immigration bill, he supported stricter provisions, and later, when the Constitutional Council overturned them, he called for a return to discussions on them.

Bruno Retailleau told TF1 that making agreements with Maghreb countries to stop migrants is fundamental. The Interior Minister also discussed creating an alliance of European countries that prioritize controlling migration.

The new authorities also want to restrict migrants' access to social benefits. "We're one of the European countries that offers the most benefits, and I don't want France to stand out, to be the most attractive country in Europe for a certain number of social benefits and access to healthcare," said the Interior Minister.

The minister's list of changes also includes simplifying the expulsion and punishment of illegal migrants. During Prime Minister Michel Barnier's address, specific proposals will be presented next week.

The newspaper Le Figaro speculates that the new Interior Minister might address potential immigration issues such as limiting free healthcare for illegal immigrants and restricting family reunification. The newspaper also wonders whether Retailleau will aim to negotiate readmission agreements for illegal arrivals between France and the countries where most immigrants come.