Overview

• The French Senate voted 227–113 to strip NGOs of their mandate to provide legal aid in administrative detention centers, citing impartiality and cost savings.
• Legal assistance roles will be transferred to the state-run Office français de l’immigration et de l’intégration (Ofii) and private lawyers, under the Interior Ministry's oversight.
• Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and Senator Marie-Carole Ciuntu championed the reform, claiming it addresses NGO 'militantism' and reduces litigation costs by €6.5 million annually.
• Opponents, including left-wing parties and NGOs, argue the measure undermines detainees' rights, independent legal counsel, and democratic transparency.
• The bill, part of a broader immigration crackdown, has been fast-tracked to the National Assembly for further debate and potential approval.