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Patrick Weil Publishes 'De l'immigration en France' and Calls for Clarity in Migration Debate

publication · 2026-09-13

On September 13, 2026, historian Patrick Weil released his latest work, 'De l'immigration en France' (Grasset), which addresses the divisive topic of immigration. Weil, an expert in citizenship and president of Bibliothèques sans frontières, highlights the notable rise in immigration to France since the early 2000s, a trend that has caught governments off guard. He contends that this increase stems from administrative choices and legal changes rather than a 'flood.' The book explores asylum rights, OQTFs, and family reunification, reflecting on the policies of Valéry Giscard d'Estaing. Weil advocates for a specialized ministry for immigration and emphasizes the need for realistic planning and evidence-based public discussions, aiming to restore rationality to the immigration discourse amid the presidential campaign.

Key facts

  • Patrick Weil published 'De l'immigration en France' with Grasset on September 13, 2026.
  • Weil is an historian, political scientist, and president of Bibliothèques sans frontières.
  • He was interviewed by Pierre-Édouard Deldique on RFI's IDÉES program.
  • The book notes a significant increase in immigration's share of the French population since the early 2000s.
  • Weil argues the rise results from administrative decisions, legal reforms, and European choices, not a 'flood'.
  • The essay analyzes asylum rights, OQTFs, European rules, and family reunification.
  • Weil proposes creating a dedicated ministry for immigration, without adding national identity.
  • The book was released in the context of the presidential campaign.

Entities

Artists

  • Patrick Weil
  • Pierre-Édouard Deldique
  • Valéry Giscard d'Estaing
  • Nicolas Sarkozy
  • Guedra Guedra
  • Zal Sissokho
  • Laurent Perrault-Jolicoeur

Institutions

  • Grasset
  • RFI
  • IDÉES
  • Bibliothèques sans frontières

Locations

  • France

Sources