France’s newly appointed junior minister for Europe, Benjamin Haddad, has expressed the government’s determination to push for stricter migration policies within the European Union. In his first interview since taking on the role, Haddad emphasized the growing demand among EU citizens for better control over immigration. He highlighted that while this doesn’t mean completely closing borders, it does involve stricter criteria for residency and ensuring the removal of individuals who are not authorized to stay.
Haddad pointed to the start of Ursula von der Leyen’s second term as European Commission president as an opportunity to re-evaluate the EU’s current immigration policies. He believes that the new legislative cycle offers a chance for member states to work together and develop a more unified approach to managing irregular migration. The minister also mentioned the need to support countries on the front lines of Europe’s migration crisis, such as Greece and Italy, while calling for a cohesive effort across the EU.
The wave of anti-immigrant sentiment across Europe has pushed several governments, including Hungary and the Netherlands, to call for opt-outs from certain EU migration policies. In a recent move, Germany reinstated border checks to curb irregular migration, a decision that has sparked frustration among neighboring countries. Haddad indicated that France is also reconsidering its stance on migration, with a focus on partnerships with North African countries and potential changes to visa policies and foreign aid.
The French government, led by Prime Minister Michel Barnier, has already made combatting illegal immigration a top priority. Supported by both centrists and conservatives, Barnier’s government is also seeking support from the far-right National Rally to maintain its position. Haddad’s stance aligns with that of Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, who recently called for an alliance with EU countries advocating for tougher migration measures. This marks a shift in France’s approach, signaling its movement towards a more hawkish stance on the issue.
Barnier himself, a former EU chief Brexit negotiator, has emphasized the need for practical solutions to address immigration challenges rather than introducing new legislation. His government’s focus on immigration control reflects a broader European trend of tightening migration rules to address growing concerns over border security and irregular migration.