France signed a groundbreaking immigration agreement with Kazakhstan, aiming to address the growing public demand for stronger immigration control. President Emmanuel Macron and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met in Paris on the 6 November 2024, sealing an accord that allows France to deport certain foreign nationals to Kazakhstan, in addition to Kazakh nationals. This partnership comes at a time when the French government faces mounting pressure to act on immigration, especially following high-profile incidents that have spurred public outcry.
Addressing Public Concerns on Immigration
Immigration remains a sensitive issue in France, with a growing number of citizens expressing dissatisfaction over what they perceive as lax immigration enforcement. The recent killing of a French student by a Moroccan immigrant, who had been slated for deportation, ignited widespread demands for more decisive action. With far-right groups calling for stricter policies and public opinion leaning increasingly in favor of control, Macron’s administration has sought innovative solutions to show voters it is taking the issue seriously.
The Kazakhstan agreement is designed to facilitate the deportation of individuals not only from Kazakhstan but also third-country nationals. Under the agreement, foreign nationals, such as Afghans who may have transited through Kazakhstan, could be sent there instead of back to their unstable home countries. This arrangement provides France with an alternative route, especially for deportations to regions like Afghanistan, where repatriation is complicated by Taliban rule and security concerns.
Kazakhstan as a Strategic Hub
For Kazakhstan, this agreement offers diplomatic and economic opportunities. The Central Asian nation, keen to strengthen ties with European powers, now positions itself as a strategic partner for France. In return, France has committed to supporting Kazakhstan’s negotiations with the European Union to ease visa requirements for Kazakh citizens. This could improve travel and business access for Kazakhs, fostering economic opportunities and stronger cultural ties with Europe.
This is the first agreement of its kind between France and a Central Asian country. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau is reportedly exploring similar agreements with Iraq and Egypt, indicating that France is looking to establish more partnerships across the region as part of its immigration strategy.
A Diplomatic Move with Regional Implications
Involving Kazakhstan as a transit hub for deportations is not only a solution to France’s immigration concerns but also a diplomatic strategy to increase France’s influence in Central Asia. By working closely with Kazakhstan, France sends a signal to other Central Asian nations that cooperation with European countries can yield tangible benefits. This move could potentially counterbalance the influence of Russia and China in the region, adding a geopolitical dimension to France’s immigration strategy.
However, this partnership also brings challenges. Human rights groups may scrutinize the treatment of deported individuals, especially third-country nationals sent to Kazakhstan. France must ensure that Kazakhstan upholds humanitarian standards, as any reports of mistreatment could draw international criticism and tarnish the French government’s image.
An Immigration Strategy with Global Reach
Macron’s administration is banking on this agreement to provide some relief from domestic pressure. But beyond immediate immigration control, the France-Kazakhstan agreement could reshape how European countries manage immigration. By outsourcing deportations, France is testing a model that other EU countries may consider adopting.
The agreement represents a balancing act for Macron, who seeks to address his country’s immigration concerns without directly violating human rights obligations. For the people of France, this deal shows that Macron’s government is exploring innovative ways to respond to public demands for tighter immigration control.
As Macron’s team pursues similar arrangements with Iraq, Egypt, and potentially other nations, this new diplomatic approach may well become a hallmark of France’s immigration policy—and perhaps a sign of things to come for Europe as a whole.
