Bardella-Farage immigration deal faces backlash across French political spectrum
The agreement was blasted as a capitulation to British interests by much of the political class in France.
French presidential hopefuls from both the far left and far right are expressing disapproval of the immigration memorandum of understanding signed by National Rally leader Jordan Bardella and Reform UK's Nigel Farage. The deal stipulates that France will typically accept migrants intercepted in the English Channel and return them to French territory.
Critics argue that the agreement may undermine French sovereignty over immigration matters. Only if Reform UK and National Rally secure power in their respective countries would the pact take effect. Critics such as Xavier Bertrand, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Gabriel Attal, and Edouard Philippe have harshly criticized Bardella for allegedly bowing to Farage and potentially turning France into a "gatekeeper" for the United Kingdom.
Even Bardella's competitors in the race, like Edouard Philippe, have mocked the agreement. The far-right party Reconquest, led by Eric Zemmour, also condemned the accord, stating that no alliance should be made at the expense of France's borders and people. Marine Le Pen, the National Rally's presidential candidate, has remained notably quiet on the matter.
This deal follows Farage's announcement of a plan to intercept small boats attempting to reach the UK from France and return migrants to French shores. However, doubts have been raised about Le Pen's plan to send them back to France if they are not French.
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