Bruno Retailleau Proposes Referendum to Abolish Right of Soil While Mayotte Prepares Security Assises on Immigration Impact

Bruno Retailleau, Les Républicains' presidential candidate, has announced his plan to abolish the right of soil in France through a national referendum. He argued that judges would not accept such reforms unless validated directly by the French public. Retailleau intends to revise the Constitution to expand topics allowed for referendum, focusing on immigration and criminal policy. He stated, “I take this commitment that it will finally be the French who will define immigration policy,” referencing Mayotte’s precedent of abrogating the right of soil.

Simultaneously, in Mayotte, the second Assises de la sécurité et de la citoyenneté is scheduled for September 21-24, 2026, aiming to involve local citizens in discussions on public security and immigration’s impact. Fardat Durand, the municipality spokesperson, encouraged Mahorais to participate actively, highlighting insecurity linked to illegal immigration and challenges faced by local institutions. A 2020 survey found that 38% of victims did not file complaints, signaling a trust deficit in law enforcement. The Assises seek to evaluate previous commitments, improve data sharing, and involve the public in shaping security policies.

Retailleau’s push for direct citizen involvement in immigration policy and Mayotte’s community consultations underscore an evolving political focus on engaging the public in defining France’s response to immigration challenges.