Overview
- A decree dated December 26 and published in the Journal officiel on December 27 formally naturalized George and Amal Clooney and their two children as French citizens.
- The Foreign Ministry confirmed the move came after a letter from Jean-Noël Barrot recommending use of the “étranger émérite” mechanism for figures seen as advancing France’s cultural and economic influence.
- Minister Delegate Marie-Pierre Vedrenne said she will review the entire process, calling it “not the right message” and raising an equity concern given the actor’s limited French proficiency.
- The debate coincides with stricter integration requirements starting January 1, including a civics exam and a higher B2 French-language level for foreigners seeking long-term status.
- The Clooneys have established ties in Brignoles since 2021, purchasing a property, enrolling their children locally, and participating in community initiatives, according to local reporting.