Migration Policy Backlash, Identity and Integration of Second-Generation Migrants in France

Thomas Baudin, Yajna Govind and Simone Moriconi

No 12362, CESifo Working Paper Series from CESifo

Abstract: Do symbolic aspects of integration policies affect migrants’ integration into the host society? In this paper, we study the effects of a symbolic change in birthright citizenship rules in France that requires second-generation immigrants to state their allegiance on their integration. Adopting a Difference-in-Differences approach, we show that, contrary to its stated aim of fostering a greater sense of belonging, this policy led to a loss of national identity and an increase in perceptions of discrimination among the target group. We document that these effects are not driven by changes in naturalization rates or an increased general hostility. We also show that while the reform did not affect their economic or political integration, it did reduce their cultural integration, as measured by religiosity and naming patterns. Overall, rather than promoting integration, such migration policies can lead to a backlash.

Keywords: naturalization; migrant integration; policy backlash; national identity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: J1 J15 J21 J24 J61 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ces:ceswps:_12362

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