Saint-Denis Mayor Advocates for Regularizing All Undocumented Immigrants, Citing Demographic Benefits

Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis, has called for the regularization of all undocumented immigrants, framing immigration as a vital asset for France's demographic and economic future. Speaking on LCI, the mayor from the La France Insoumise party presented immigration as a source of enrichment and a potential driver of dynamism amid a declining birth rate.

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It is the regularization of all undocumented immigrants, that is the ambition we embody.

While acknowledging that immigration can help compensate for a "tamping" of births, Bagayoko emphasized that immigrants are not merely a demographic tool. He stated they "live like everyone else" and contribute to the country's development through their own births. He also described immigration as "a wealth for France" in both economic and cultural spheres.

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this hand of fraternity

Bagayoko strongly advocated for a policy of welcoming irregular immigrants, dismissing the idea of quick deportations. He urged France to extend "this hand of fraternity" and welcome those wishing to settle permanently under "good conditions." When asked about a general regularization, he confirmed, "It is the regularization of all undocumented immigrants, that is the ambition we embody."

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a wealth for France

Addressing concerns about attracting more migrants, Bagayoko pointed to Spain's approach rather than Denmark's stricter policies. He believes that in a France grappling with falling birth rates, immigration can serve as a "dynamizing element" for French society.

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live like everyone else