French lawmakers vote to end 1968 migration deal with Algeria

The French National Assembly has approved a controversial resolution demanding an end to the 1968 migration agreement between France and Algeria. The non-binding motion passed by a single vote (185-184) during a session allocated to the far-right National Rally (RN), marking a significant political achievement for Marine Le Pen's party.

Political Alignment and Criticism

The resolution gained unexpected support from center-right parties Les Republicains and Horizons, creating a rare parliamentary alignment against the decades-old accord. RN deputy Guillaume Bigot, who introduced the text, criticized what he called an "extremely exceptional regime" that grants Algerian nationals preferential treatment regarding residence permits, employment access, and social welfare benefits in France.

Government Position and Diplomatic Context

While President Emmanuel Macron's centrist government has resisted formally terminating the agreement, former Prime Minister Gabriel Attal had previously expressed support for revising the treaty. The vote occurs amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Paris and Algiers, including recent expulsions of Algerian diplomats and ongoing disputes over visa policies that have strained bilateral relations.

Opposition Concerns and Legal Implications

Left-wing parties strongly condemned the resolution, accusing Macron's Renaissance party of enabling the far-right by failing to ensure sufficient attendance for the vote. Opposition lawmakers also warned that the motion provides no alternative legal framework for managing migration between the two countries, potentially creating a legal vacuum that could complicate future bilateral cooperation on immigration matters.