In a groundbreaking development, French lawmakers have reached agreement on a contentious immigration bill aimed at strengthening the country's ability to deport undesirable foreigners. The bill, championed by Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, has been met with both praise and criticism from various political factions and advocacy groups. The legislation, which will allow 7,000 to 10,000 undocumented migrant workers a year to obtain residency permits and fill labor shortages in key sectors, has been described as a significant step forward in both curbing illegal immigration and integrating valuable workers into the French economy.

Conservative lawmakers have lauded the bill for its provisions to reduce the overall number of migrants in France, particularly by limiting access to social benefits for foreigners. However, opposition from advocacy organizations such as Amnesty International France and over 40 French groups has been fierce, with many denouncing the bill as a direct threat to the rights of migrants and a violation of fundamental human rights.

The passing of this bill, which requires approval from both houses of parliament, marks a pivotal moment in shaping France's immigration policies and has been seen by many as a sign of a shifting political landscape, with far-right lawmaker Marine Le Pen and her National Rally party expressing support for the legislation. As the bill heads towards a critical vote, the future of immigration policy in France hangs in the balance, with lawmakers and activists alike eagerly awaiting the outcome of this decisive moment in the country's history.