"A woman is holding a sign that reads 'Health isn't negotiabl..."

#10926248

20 January 2024

A woman is holding a sign that reads 'Health isn't negotiable' as several thousand people are demonstrating in Toulouse, France, on January 20, 2023, against the 'Darmanin' law proposed by the French Ministry of Interior. The law aims to drastically limit or even stop state medical aid, social security, and social benefits to refugees or migrants in France. Many are opposing this law for various reasons. University presidents and professors are protesting, arguing that the law contradicts the values of the French Republic and the long-standing tradition of French universities being open to the world. They are concerned that international students will face higher fees than French students and a 'return bail.' Medical workers are protesting the potential elimination of state medical aid, emphasizing the importance of treating illnesses before they become too severe or expensive to treat. Entrepreneurs are voicing their opposition, citing their need for this workforce for low-paid or seasonal jobs. Teachers are protesting because the law would make knowledge of the French language mandatory, and they argue that there are insufficient resources to teach French to newcomers, including children. The Constitutional Council is set to deliver its opinion on the constitutionality of the law on January 25th.

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