Overdose or opportunity? The political salience of the immigration issue in France in the 1980s and 90s

During the 1980s and 90s, immigration has become a key issue in French politics and for the French public. This paper analyzes the factors contributing to the salience of this issue and the responses of the major political parties. The research draws on current scholarly articles, French newspapers and magazines, opinion polls, French government statistics, and official party literature. The results of the research indicate that a combination of social, economic, and political variables has made immigration a significant political topic. They also indicate that all major political parties address the issue, and to some extent converge in their increasing stringency toward immigration and foreigners' rights. The paper concludes that the continued salience of the issue will depend in part on the economic climate, the policies implemented, and the party in power. The unique history and traditions of France have influenced the nature of its reaction to the issue.