What does France’s National Front stand for?
France 24
Marine Le Pen, France's National Front political party head, attends a news conference at the party's headquarters in Nanterre, near Paris, May 27, 2014. REUTERS Photo
The FN doesn't like being called "far right". But it remains unashamedly protectionist and populist, while espousing a strong desire to reduce immigration – especially from Africa.It overtly privileges the rights of French citizens over foreigners and immigrants.
The party is especially keen to repatriate powers from Europe and to boost France’s international power and prestige.
Here is a breakdown of the FN’s main policies, sourced from the party’s own manifesto.
Immigration:
-A reduction in legal immigration to France from the current 200,000 a year to 10,000.
-A ban on automatic immigration rights to join a spouse or family member residing legally in France.
-An end to the European Schengen Area, which gives free cross-border movement, and reinstatement of border checks.
-A toughening of the requirements to get French citizenship, which the FN says should not be automatic, while insisting that applicants demonstrate a strong commitment to France and its language.
-Zero tolerance of illegal immigration and an end to illegal immigrants’ rights to remain in France if they have been in the country for a given period.
-Priority to be given to French citizens over foreigners for jobs and for social housing.
-Banning dual nationality for non-Europeans, which would particularly affect citizens of former French colonies in Africa.
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