2024-10-05 08:29:46
Integration
Immigration and integration were the key words in France this week, after the new Interior Minister gave a series of interviews arguing that immigration in France is out of control, that immigrants are not integrating enough, and that immigration itself offers “no opportunities” for France.
These are all highly dubious claims, but I was heartened to see so many people not only point out that they are nonsense but list the many immigrants, and children of immigrants, who have made France the country it is today.
Some politicians seem to genuinely hate immigration, but others pick on immigrants because they are an easy target and see it as a way to score cheap political points – so it’s good to see non-immigrants speaking out against this.
This is not to say, however, that integration is not the goal, and in my experience, most immigrants are eager to do so.
On a basic level, I really think you’ll have a lot more fun in France if you try to get to know the country (and the language) a little better. Moving on to more formal processes, being “fully integrated” is a requirement if you want to take French citizenship. Integration in terms of citizenship means a deep understanding and appreciation of France, its culture, history and values, but could also include things like joining French sports clubs and speaking French with friends and family.
Announcement
Talking about France
We talk about integration and some of the most famous French immigrants in the latest Talking France podcast, where we also discuss Marine Le Pen’s ongoing legal problems, the French kiss, toy trains and dinosaurs. Listen Here or on the link below.
Aligot-go-go
And since it’s unusually cool for the beginning of October, I think we may be heading towards the beginning aligot season? I don’t think it’s cold enough for fondue or raclette yet, but aligot (with an optional Toulouse sausage) is perfect for cooler autumn days.
Besides being delicious, it is it might even be the most elastic food product on the planetlike this 2020 aligot world record shows. . .
Announcement
Going for gold
And this week we remind you that just when you think you have started to learn about a country and can even explain obscure aspects of the political system to the locals, you will always remain a foreigner – for me this happened simply through breaking news alerts said The golden owl has been found (the golden owl has been found).
Apparently this was a massive treasure hunt in which the French have been engaged for more than 30 years. Who knew?
#Immigration #string #cheese #golden #owls