Survey: 81% of French Support Economic Sanctions on Algeria if It Refuses to Repatriate Its Citizens from France

ALDAR/

A recent opinion poll conducted by the newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche (Le JDD) showed that 81% of French people support imposing economic sanctions on Algeria if it refuses to repatriate its citizens who are subject to the “Obligation to Leave French Territory” (OQTF).

This result was shocking, as it comes at a time when the issue of illegal immigration is causing increasing tensions between Paris and Algiers. Migrants rejected by French authorities, who are subject to the OQTF, remain in France without returning to their home country, placing the French government in a difficult position.

In this context, public pressure within France is growing on political authorities to take firm action against Algeria if it continues to refuse to repatriate its citizens who do not hold legal residency.

Many French people believe that Algeria’s refusal to address this issue is adding an extra burden on France, and they see imposing economic sanctions as an appropriate response.

The indicators from the survey also reflect widespread dissatisfaction among the French public with the continued situation, with many from various political backgrounds supporting these measures, viewing a firm French response as necessary.

Moreover, the data from the poll suggests that these economic sanctions would serve as a means of pressuring the Algerian government to change its stance, highlighting a polarization between European governments and Algerian authorities regarding immigration issues and the policies adopted in this regard.