Introduction: Macron's Gamble and the Far-Right Rise
In a shocking move, French President Emmanuel Macron called a snap parliamentary election on June 9, 2024, after the far-right National Rally won 40% of votes in the European Union elections. Hoping to mobilize his base and secure a stronger majority, Macron instead triggered a political crisis. The National Rally emerged as the biggest winner, potentially leading France into a new era with significant implications for foreigners living in the country.
Impact on Foreigners: Direct Threats to Rights and Inclusion
The National Rally's agenda poses severe risks to immigrants and foreign residents in France. Under the leadership of Jordan Bardella, the party advocates for policies that could strip away fundamental rights. Key measures include:
- National Preference: This policy would reserve jobs, welfare benefits, social housing, and state-funded services exclusively for French citizens, excluding legal residents who may have lived and paid taxes in France for decades.
- Citizenship Restrictions: Proposals to limit French citizenship to descendants of French citizens, overturning centuries of precedent that allow citizenship through birth or residence in France.
- Dual Passport Ban: French citizens holding multiple passports could be barred from public-sector jobs and state-funded positions, including in healthcare.
Additionally, the party's anti-immigrant rhetoric has already fueled racist incidents, such as the case in Montargis where a Black nurse was harassed. Foreigners should be aware that these policies aim to create a less inclusive and more hostile environment.
Key Details: Election Fallout and Radical Policies
Election Results: A Political Upheaval
Macron's centrist alliance came in third with only 21% of the vote in the first round, expected to lose 155-210 seats. The National Rally led with 33%, a historic high, and could secure a majority in the 577-seat National Assembly after runoffs. The left-wing New Popular Front came second with 28%, but cooperation among other parties aims to block the far right's absolute majority.
National Rally's Radical Agenda Under Jordan Bardella
Jordan Bardella, the 28-year-old likely next prime minister, presents himself as a moderate but promotes draconian ideas. Despite lacking experience, he pushes for dismantling equal treatment and the rule of law. His platform includes:
- Eliminating equal access to state resources for non-citizens.
- Rolling back citizenship rights, potentially affecting generations of immigrants.
- Hostility towards the European Union and international treaties, which could disrupt France's global engagements.
Bardella's clean image masks the party's extremist roots, tracing back to Jean-Marie Le Pen's anti-Semitic and racist history.
Foreign Policy Implications: A Shift in Alliances
If the National Rally controls parliament, France's foreign policy could be reshuffled. The party has longstanding ties to Russia and has been reluctant to support Ukraine fully. While they no longer advocate for a "Frexit," they plan to ignore EU rules when inconvenient and reconsider NATO participation. This could impact France's role in international affairs and affect foreigners from allied countries.
Conclusion: Navigating a New Political Landscape
The rise of the National Rally represents a significant threat to France's democratic values and its welcoming stance towards foreigners. While other parties are cooperating to prevent an absolute majority, the far right's influence is already causing social tension. Foreign residents should stay informed, engage with local communities, and advocate for inclusive policies. As France faces this pivotal moment, the outcome will shape the country's future for years to come.