ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the various developments and reforms in nationality and immigration policy in France in the context of this larger European framework. Immigration policies thus need to be considered within the context of France's membership of the European Union (EU), and continued attempts of the EU to agree on common immigration and asylum policies that they can enforce. The goal of reducing immigration and even a wish expressed by some to reach a target of zero immigration has met obstacles in that the French state has been unable to ban immigration for family reunification, and for asylum seekers, and in the inability to stop illegal immigration. Immigration has been the single most important issue through which the Front National has mobilised support, a matrix through which most other issues could be channelled. The Front's policies include forced repatriation of non-European immigrants, the restrictive reform of nationality laws, and national preference in allocation of employment, housing, education and social security benefits.
