Senators in France have begun debating a bill aimed at strengthening the country's immigration law, but it is facing criticism from advocacy organizations over concerns about the rights of asylum-seekers and undocumented migrants. The legislation, introduced by French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, aims to be tougher on foreigners who commit crimes by expelling them, while also addressing the regularization of undocumented individuals.

The proposed bill focuses on deporting foreigners who are considered a serious threat to public order, with the intention of strengthening and expediting the deportation process. However, it also includes a provision that grants legal status, under certain conditions, to undocumented individuals working in sectors facing labor shortages.

The debate in the Senate marks the first step in what is expected to be a challenging legislative journey for the bill. Previously postponed multiple times due to a lack of support from a parliamentary majority, the legislation now faces scrutiny from the conservative-dominated upper house of parliament. Conservatives argue that granting legal status to undocumented workers would create a "pull effect" and attract more migrants to the country.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, speaking on France Inter radio, rejected this claim and argued that the provision would benefit those who have been living in France for years and are well integrated into society. However, the bill's progress through the National Assembly, where President Emmanuel Macron's centrist alliance has the most seats but lacks a majority, is expected to be contentious.

Outside the Senate, dozens of left-wing lawmakers and human rights activists staged a demonstration, expressing their concerns about the potential impact of the bill. Activist Aboubakar Dembele highlighted the contributions of migrants to the French economy, even in the absence of legal status. He stressed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many undocumented workers continued to work despite the risks.

Various non-governmental organizations, including Human Rights Watch, the Human Rights League, and Amnesty International France, have criticized the bill as a threat to migrants' rights. These organizations argue that the legislation divides families and weakens the rights of asylum-seekers, suggesting that it is not an appropriate response to the country's security concerns.

As the debate continues in the Senate and later in the National Assembly, the fate of the controversial immigration bill remains uncertain. Deliberations on this legislation have ignited a national conversation about the rights and treatment of asylum-seekers and undocumented migrants in France.