Criticism Grows Over France's Administrative Treatment of Foreign Residents
A coalition of 60 officials criticizes the treatment of foreigners in France, calling for urgent reforms.
Key Points
- • Critique of the bureaucratic treatment of foreigners in France by 60 officials and leaders.
- • Digitization has increased barriers for residency applications, leading to systemic issues.
- • Foreigners face challenges in renewing work contracts and accessing basic rights like pensions.
- • Authors call for comprehensive reforms to restore dignity and humane treatment for all residents.
In a striking opinion published on July 6, 2025, a coalition of 60 elected officials and leaders from various associations criticized France's bureaucratic treatment of foreigners, arguing it is unworthy of the nation's republican values. The commentary highlights the challenges faced by long-term residents, many of whom have contributed to French society yet now find themselves in a precarious state of administrative insecurity.
Since the digitization of residency applications through the Anef platform in 2021, these individuals have encountered significant barriers, such as difficulties in scheduling appointments, lost documentation, and lack of responsiveness from the system. As reported, these obstacles have made it increasingly challenging for foreigners to renew work contracts or access basic rights, including pensions.
The authors pointed to a report by the Défenseur des droits that affirms widespread violations of user rights within the system. They contend that while the government encourages integration, it simultaneously erects barriers that complicate access to essential services for foreigners, stating, "A republic cannot demand integration efforts while imposing barriers to accessing rights."
They unequivocally call for reforms to ensure equal treatment and respect for the dignity of all residents, urging the President of France to act in restoring humane and accessible public services. Only through change can France hope to honor the humanity and contributions of everyone residing within its borders.