French Senate Considers Extending Migrant Detention to 18 Months

Proposed legislation seeks stricter detention rules and limits on social benefits for non-EU migrants, sparking debate over immigration policy.

The French Senate is reviewing two bills aimed at intensifying immigration controls and limiting access to social benefits for non-EU migrants.
One proposal, led by Senator Jacqueline Eustache-Brinio, would extend administrative detention for certain migrants to 18 months, aligning with Germany's practices.
The second bill, introduced by Senator Valérie Boyer, would require two years of legal residence and 30 months of employment for non-EU migrants to access key social benefits.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has voiced strong support for the detention extension, citing security concerns following a recent attack by a migrant under deportation orders.
Critics argue the measures could exacerbate social vulnerabilities for migrants and question the effectiveness of longer detention periods in improving deportation rates.