French Immigration In France

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Millions of people around the globe immigrate into different countries every year. For some people, moving to a new place can be about taking on a different career opportunity, following a love interest, or reuniting with family. While for others, immigration is necessary to survive. It is not a simple choice, but rather a struggle to escape the horrors in their own country. There are numerous nations that welcome immigrants and refugees with open arms, but many do not. Picking up your life and traveling to a new country is hard even in the most accepting of places. For example, in the US, there are varieties of cultures and people from all over the world, making it one of the most desirable places for immigrants. Yet, even still, Americans can be unwelcoming and rude to outsiders. One of the largest populations of immigrants is in France, with around 7.4 million foreign-born people living there in 2010. Despite this large number, the French culture is one of the most nationalistic in the world, which can sometimes come off as hostile to newcomers. The history and development of French immigration policies is full of stubbornness and errors. Even now, the country’s unwillingness to allow new cultures to flourish in their home is becoming a large issue for the masses of immigrants that reside in France.
The immigration craze for the French started right after World War II. The country was low on labor and needed to rebuild after the destruction from the battles. Therefore, they opened their doors to many people from other parts of Europe, Africa, and Latin America. During the next few decades, other wars ensued around the world, such as the Vietnam War and the Algerian War, making France a sanctuary for refugees. Ho...

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...r of superiority and resentment. Obviously you cannot judge every French person based on this common sentiment, as everyone is different, but it definitely a prominent dilemma the French are facing.
It is my opinion that their ethnocentrism will eventually be their downfall if they do not change soon. France is currently the largest tourist destination in the world, and this tourism industry contributes greatly to their economy and GDP. Nevertheless, if they continue to treat foreigners with such contempt, this is sure to decline and their economy will suffer for it. It is ironic that the French are so against foreigners in their country, yet they also rely on it to survive and thrive. In the following decades, I am hopeful that there will be a change in policy and attitude in France, and that someday they will learn to welcome immigrants and their cultures.

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