The Prevailing Policy of the Republican Integration Contract

Abstract

Faced with societal diversification, French integration policy has shifted from a reception-oriented approach towards a “contractual obligation” framework. This article analyses the overhaul of the Republican Integration Contract (CIR) under the presidency of Emmanuel Macron, along with its developments and challenges. The government established a highly demanding bilateral contract structured around three pillars: strengthened French-language learning (accompanied by mandatory assessments), deeper civic training, and the digitalisation of procedures through the Digital Administration for Foreigners in France (ANEF), which embodies genuine algorithmic governance. Nevertheless, this pursuit of efficiency generates adverse side effects. Stringent criteria and dematerialised procedures exacerbate stratification among immigrants, leaving the most vulnerable groups exposed to a severe “digital divide” and administrative exclusion. Furthermore, the imposition of a coercive identity crystallises tensions between integration and respect for cultural diversity. To reconcile social cohesion and inclusion, future integration policy must bridge the gap between macro-policy design and local resources while reconnecting with the human dimension of public services.