French Politician Reignites Visa Controversy with Algeria

French politician François-Xavier Bellamy, a supporter of Bruno Retailleau's presidential campaign, has sparked controversy by calling for the suspension of visa issuance to Algerian citizens. In a social media post on November 13, Bellamy argued that Algeria is exerting "scandalous blackmail" over France and proposed using visa restrictions as leverage. He suggested that France could expel Algerian nationals without papers to other African countries.

Bellamy's comments have reignited tensions between France and Algeria, a familiar dynamic in the lead-up to French presidential elections. Algerians are often drawn into France's political debates, and the 2027 election is no exception. Bellamy's proposal involves using the European regulation on returns to expel Algerian nationals present in France illegally. He suggested that if Algeria refuses to accept them back, they could be sent to other countries in Africa.

The controversy centers on the idea of using visas as a bargaining chip in France's relations with Algeria. Bellamy advocated for a complete halt on visa issuance to Algerian citizens until Algeria agrees to take back its own nationals. He framed this as a necessary step to assert pressure on Algeria and suggested it could be implemented as early as 2027.

Bellamy's statements have been seen as an attempt to revitalize Bruno Retailleau's campaign by reviving divisive issues. His approach has been criticized for targeting Algerians and Algeria directly. The proposal to expel Algerian nationals without papers to other African countries has raised concerns about the practicality and implications of such a policy.

The debate over visa policies and expulsions highlights the complexities of France's relations with its former colonies and the ongoing challenges of managing migration. France and Algeria have a long history of navigating sensitive diplomatic relationships, and the issue of visas and expulsions remains a contentious topic.

Bellamy's comments reflect a broader trend of using migration and border control as a wedge issue in French politics. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, it is likely that these topics will continue to be debated. The French government has not yet responded to Bellamy's proposals, but the controversy is likely to continue.

The issue remains a sensitive one, with implications for both France and Algeria. The two countries have a significant history of cooperation, but also face ongoing challenges in managing their shared border and migration flows. The debate over visa policies is set to continue in the coming months.

Key points

• François-Xavier Bellamy suggests suspending visa issuance to Algerian citizens until Algeria agrees to take back its own nationals.