French Senate Approves Ban on Marriage for Undocumented Migrants

The controversial proposal, supported by the government, faces significant legal challenges due to constitutional protections of marriage rights.

The French Senate passed a bill prohibiting marriage for individuals residing in the country without legal status, with 227 votes in favor and 110 against.
The bill, introduced by centrist Senator Stéphane Demilly, aims to prevent fraudulent marriages allegedly used to obtain French nationality.
Critics argue the measure violates constitutional protections of marriage rights and is likely to be challenged by the Constitutional Council, citing established jurisprudence from 2003.
The legislation has drawn sharp criticism from left-leaning lawmakers and advocacy groups, who describe it as discriminatory and aligned with far-right policies.
Supporters, including Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin and Justice Minister Bruno Retailleau, argue the law addresses legal loopholes and reflects evolving societal concerns.