France is a significant player in the global landscape that many French citizens are unaware of. Thirty current heads of state or government around the world in 2023 have completed their higher education in France. According to the Higher Education Policy Institute, a British think tank specializing in university policies, France ranks third in terms of influential states in this regard, behind the United States and the United Kingdom. Following France are Russia, Switzerland, Australia, Italy, and Spain. Despite the importance of attracting foreign students for its influence and prestige, France often treats the issue in a negative light, grouping it under immigration rather than as a tool for international outreach.
In the autumn of 2023, Senator Roger Karoutchi from the conservative party (Les Républicains) succeeded in getting an amendment passed in the immigration bill that would require a deposit as a guarantee for the issuance of a residence permit for educational purposes, with the sum to be refunded upon leaving the country. This measure, which was seen as an attempt to attract votes from the right and far-right, was heavily opposed by higher education officials and was eventually struck down by the Constitutional Council for being unrelated to the bill’s main purpose. Despite this setback, there is a possibility that the amendment could be reintroduced in the future.
President Emmanuel Macron, although admitting that he did not agree with the amendment, saw some of his allies supporting it. He acknowledged the need to continue attracting international talents and students and highlighted the misconception of foreigners exploiting student status to bypass residency regulations. The reality, however, is that the majority of students who arrived in France in 2010 had left the country or become French citizens within ten years of receiving their first residence permit. Those who remain contribute significantly to legal labor immigration, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) report on international migration in 2023.
The issue of attracting foreign students goes beyond simply educational benefits. It is also a tool for political, scientific, and economic soft power. By maintaining an open and welcoming environment for international students, France can increase its global influence and connections. Despite the challenges and misconceptions surrounding foreign students, their presence contributes positively to the diversity and talent pool in the country. Efforts should be made to shift the narrative from viewing them solely as immigrants to recognizing the broader benefits they bring in terms of knowledge exchange and international collaboration.
In conclusion, the presence of foreign students in France is an important factor in the country’s international reputation and influence. Recognizing the value they bring in terms of talent, diversity, and global connections is crucial for maintaining France’s position as a key player in the global arena. By embracing and supporting international students, France can further enhance its soft power and strengthen its relationships with other countries. Efforts should be made to overcome misconceptions and challenges related to foreign student presence and focus on the broader benefits they bring to the educational, economic, and cultural landscape of the country.
