France 2027 election: Algeria and Islam become central campaign issues

As the 2027 French presidential election approaches, issues regarding Algeria and Islam have become central themes in the pre-campaign. Political figures from the hard right, far-right, and even parts of the center are utilizing these topics to mobilize voters.

Marine Le Pen and the Rassemblement National (RN) have proposed sanctions for wearing the Islamic veil in public spaces. The party is also focusing on the 1968 Franco-Algerian immigration agreement. Jordan Bardella has indicated that revoking this agreement would be a priority to reduce France's attractiveness for immigration.

Édouard Philippe, currently polling second behind Le Pen, has also adopted more hardline rhetoric, including promises to revoke the 1968 agreement and engaging in what some call electoral brinkmanship regarding relations with Algiers. However, legal experts, such as Abderrazak Boudjelti of the Union of Franco-Algerian Lawyers, suggest the 1968 agreement is largely symbolic and that its removal would not have severe consequences for Algerian nationals, who could instead fall under standard European law.