Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in cities across France on Sunday to rally against President Emmanuel Macron's proposed legislation on immigration. Protesters urged Macron not to sign the law, claiming it bears the stamp of the far right and violates French values.

According to the Interior Ministry, approximately 75,000 individuals participated in the demonstrations nationwide, with 16,000 protesters gathering in Paris. The hard-left CGT union estimated the total number of protesters to be around 150,000.

The timing of the protests is crucial, as the Constitutional Council is set to decide on the constitutionality of the law on Thursday. The legislation, passed in December, strengthens France's ability to deport undesirable foreigners and imposes stricter regulations on social welfare benefits for immigrants.

The demonstration was organized by 200 public figures from diverse sectors, including the arts and unions. In a statement, the organizers denounced the law, claiming it was influenced by those who promote "national preference," a far-right concept that prioritizes French citizens over foreigners.

Macron had been a supporter of the law during its passage through parliament. However, the President has recently expressed concerns about its constitutionality, stating that some articles may need to be struck down by the Constitutional Council.

Several articles of the law have sparked controversy, such as new requirements for family members to join their relatives in France, including demonstrating knowledge of the French language. The legislation also seeks to establish stricter criteria for social services and housing, as well as reinstate a law from 2012 that makes it illegal for foreigners to be in France without proper residency papers.

Observers suggest that Macron's endorsement of the immigration law represents a shift towards the right in an attempt to counter the rising popularity of far-right parties, particularly in the upcoming European elections in June.

The Constitutional Council's ruling on the law's conformity with the French Constitution will play a critical role in shaping the future of immigration policy in the country.