French Prime Minister François Bayrou has sparked controversy by expressing concerns over France’s rising immigration numbers, saying many citizens feel the country is being “overwhelmed.”
In a TV interview on January 27, Bayrou emphasized the growing unease about immigration, with many believing it’s “no longer under control.” He noted that some feel immigrants aren’t meeting their “obligations,” and he’s long advocated for managing immigration through quotas.
During the interview, Bayrou explained, “Foreign contributions are beneficial for a people, as long as they do not exceed a certain proportion.” He warned that while cultural diversity can enrich a nation, when it becomes too overwhelming, rejection follows. He added that some cities in France feel “submerged” and no longer recognize the country they once knew.
Bayrou also supported a proposal to end birthright citizenship in French overseas territories like Mayotte and Guyane. This suggestion, which will be debated in the National Assembly on February 6, has already stirred debate.
Bayrou’s remarks have drawn criticism from the Left. Socialist MP Arthur Delaporte accused him of harboring “xenophobic” views, while hard-left leader Manuel Bompard called his comments “shocking” and “disconnected from reality,” pointing out that immigrants make up only 7 percent of France’s population.
Despite the backlash, government figures like Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin have backed Bayrou. On January 28, Darmanin praised Bayrou as “courageous” for bringing the issue into the open, calling it a “step forward” in France’s national conversation about immigration.
