French Public Opinion on Immigration More Nuanced Than Political Rhetoric Suggests

While Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau claims strong support for stricter immigration policies, studies reveal mixed views and a declining focus on immigration as a top concern.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau asserts that 70% of French citizens support tougher immigration policies, citing a 2022 CSA poll, though more recent studies suggest less consensus.
The Cevipof barometer reports that 63% of respondents feel there are too many immigrants in France, but immigration ranks only sixth among public concerns, far behind issues like health.
Long-term data indicates a trend toward greater tolerance, with younger generations showing increased acceptance of diversity in religion and origins.
The Indice Longitudinal de Tolérance (ILT) shows a rise in societal openness since 1990, despite a slight dip in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Experts suggest Retailleau’s rhetoric aligns with a political strategy to attract voters from the far-right Rassemblement National, where immigration is a central issue.