On February 6, 2025, the French National Assembly will deliberate on a proposed legislation to amend the 'jus soli' or birthright citizenship law as it applies to the French overseas department of Mayotte.

The proposal, put forward by the political party Les Républicains, seeks to condition the acquisition of French citizenship for children born in Mayotte on the continuous legal residence of both parents on the island for at least one year.

The backing of the legislation marks a significant political development, as members of President Emmanuel Macron's party, historically centrist, have opted to support the bill.

This decision comes after internal discussions and reflects a move to align with local representatives who have advocated for such changes.

The proposed shift in citizenship criteria highlights ongoing discussions within France about national identity and immigration law, particularly in overseas territories where demographic and socio-economic challenges are prominent.

The bill is expected to secure passage in the National Assembly and is likely to receive favorable consideration in the Senate as well.

This legislative initiative occurs against a backdrop of heightened attention to immigration-related issues in France, further complicated by recent natural disasters such as Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte in December 2024, significantly affecting the local population and infrastructure.

Mayotte, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, remains a focal point in France’s broader immigration and nationality policy debates.

The territory has experienced significant demographic changes over recent decades, and the proposed law underscores efforts to manage its unique challenges.