France’s new government is considering tougher immigration laws following pressure from the far-right National Rally (RN) after the arrest of a Moroccan man suspected of murdering a 19-year-old woman in Paris. The victim, identified as Philippine, was found in the Bois de Boulogne park after being reported missing. The suspect, a 22-year-old Moroccan man with a prior conviction, was arrested in Geneva and faces extradition to France.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, under pressure from the RN, expressed the need to update legislation to prevent similar tragedies. Retailleau, a long-time immigration hawk, hinted at potential changes in response to a growing rightward shift in Europe. The RN holds significant influence in Barnier’s government, especially in immigration and crime policies.
While RN leader Jordan Bardella criticized the government for being soft on security and immigration, Greens lawmaker Sandrine Rousseau warned against spreading racist hatred. Despite France issuing a high number of expulsion orders, bureaucratic obstacles and diplomatic challenges hinder the enforcement of these orders.
The Philippine case highlights the complexities and challenges in France’s immigration and security policies, reflecting the broader political landscape in Europe.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.