French Ministers Clash Over Immigration Policy

Economy Minister Éric Lombard advocates for work-based immigration, contrasting with Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau's push for stricter controls.

Éric Lombard, France's Economy Minister, stated that the country 'needs work-based immigration' to fill labor shortages in sectors like healthcare and manufacturing.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has introduced a new circular tightening criteria for undocumented immigrants seeking residency, requiring seven years of presence and adherence to French values.
Retailleau's circular effectively replaces the 2012 Valls circular, which allowed more flexibility for prefects in regularizing undocumented immigrants.
Lombard acknowledged differing opinions within the government, emphasizing his belief that immigration is essential for economic growth.
Retailleau's stricter measures reflect his stance that 'immigration is not a chance for France,' signaling a broader debate on immigration policy within the French government.