French Assembly Votes to Tighten Birthright Citizenship Rules in Mayotte

The controversial proposal, supported by the right and far-right, faces criticism for altering long-standing principles of French nationality law.

The National Assembly approved a proposal to restrict access to French nationality for children born in Mayotte by requiring both parents to reside legally in France for a minimum of three years.
The measure, introduced by the conservative Les Républicains party, received backing from the government and far-right Rassemblement National but was opposed by left-wing parties.
The proposal intends to curb irregular migration to Mayotte, an Indian Ocean territory facing significant demographic and social pressures, including high birth rates and immigration from the nearby Comoros.
Debates in the Assembly were marked by intense exchanges, with accusations from the left of undermining republican values and concerns over the measure's potential expansion to other French territories.
The bill will now move to the Senate for further consideration, where adjustments may be made, including addressing a contested amendment that extended the residency requirement from one to three years.